Clear Glass Snail
Aegopinella pura
This record describes Aegopinella pura (species). Recorded family: Oxychilidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
Small woodland snail to 4.5mm with rapidly expanding whorls. The shell is usually transparent or white, though the darker body of the snail shows through in live specimens. The shell sculpture has many, weak radial lines (visible at x20) plus very faint spiral striae at higher magnification. The umbilicus is relatively large. If not identified by a recognised expert then a photos are required showing both upper and lower surfaces. Woodland and hedges, though may be found in gardens, rough grassland and wasteground.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Oxychilidae
- Genus
- Aegopinella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Woodland and hedges, though may be found in gardens, rough grassland and wasteground.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Common and widespread.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Aegopinella pura. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Pulmonata includes terrestrial and freshwater snails and slugs with ~30,000 described species. The giant African land snail (Lissachatina fulica) can reach 20cm and is one of the most invasive species globally.
Ecological role of the group
Terrestrial gastropods are important decomposers and calcium recyclers in forest ecosystems. They are also critical food sources for birds, hedgehogs, and beetles. Many species are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Slugs and snails cause billions in crop damage worldwide. The global molluscicide market was valued at $800 million in 2023. Conversely, edible snails (escargot) support a global industry worth over $4 billion annually.
Recorded sources for this group: FAO, agricultural pest management, gastropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Clear Glass Snail (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clear Glass Snail
What is Clear Glass Snail?
Clear Glass Snail (Aegopinella pura) is a species in the family Oxychilidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Clear Glass Snail found?
Habitat: Woodland and hedges, though may be found in gardens, rough grassland and wasteground.
When is Clear Glass Snail active?
Clear Glass Snail: seasonal activity - All year..