Columella aspera
This record describes Columella aspera (species). Recorded family: Vertiginidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
This tiny snail is only 2mm high and 1.3mm across. It is very similar to C. edentula but relatively more squat and tapering. The brown shell is more or less opaque with faint, irregular growth ridges giving it a rough surface. The mouth is nearly round and without any teeth in the aperture. Columella edentula is slightly taller, often with an extra whorl, and has smoother, fainter and more regular striations on the shell. Coniferous and deciduous woodland, poor acid grassland and typically in dryer and less calcareous habitats that C. edentula. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Vertiginidae
- Genus
- Columella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Coniferous and deciduous woodland, poor acid grassland and typically in dryer and less calcareous habitats that
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread but uncommon in Britain.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Columella aspera. 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 Columella aspera (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Columella aspera
What is Columella aspera?
Columella aspera is a species in the family Vertiginidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Columella aspera found?
Habitat: Coniferous and deciduous woodland, poor acid grassland and typically in dryer and less calcareous habitats that
When is Columella aspera active?
Columella aspera: seasonal activity - All year round..