Garlic Snail
Oxychilus alliarius
This record describes Oxychilus alliarius (species). Recorded family: Oxychilidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
6-8mm - the Garlic Snail is pale, yellow-brown and glossy. It has a closely-coiled translucent shell with a very low spire and a medium umbilicus. The snail itself is characteristically dark blue-grey. When disturbed, this snail produces a secretion that smells strongly of garlic. Whilst is not possible to be certain of this species from an image alone, the garlic smell from the the specimen is a helpful feature. However Oxychilis navarricus also can produce a garlic smell, though not usually as strong. O. navarricus is larger (8-10mm) and has a black mantle that is usually obvious as a dark band just within the shell. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. In the comments box, describe the size and identifying characters. In moist situations in plant litter, moss, etc. Sometimes in gardens. Plant and detritus feeder on algae and plant litter. Widespread and common throughout Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Oxychilidae
- Genus
- Oxychilus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In moist situations in plant litter, moss, etc. Sometimes in gardens.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Plant and detritus feeder on algae and plant litter.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and common throughout Britain.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Oxychilus alliarius. 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 Garlic Snail (9)
Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Snail
What is Garlic Snail?
Garlic Snail (Oxychilus alliarius) is a species in the family Oxychilidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Garlic Snail found?
Habitat: In moist situations in plant litter, moss, etc. Sometimes in gardens.
What is the life cycle of a Garlic Snail?
Plant and detritus feeder on algae and plant litter.