Paralaoma servilis
This record describes Paralaoma servilis (species). Recorded family: Punctidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
A tiny snail (only 1.5 to 2 mm diameter). Shell golden brownish sometimes a little darker, quite flat, ribs widely spaced and regular, very finely spirally striated, 3.5 whorls, aperture almost circular, umbilicus wide (20 to 25 % of shell diameter). Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. In soil litter, relatively humid and shady habitats, also recorded at the side of roads and in gardens. Status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. It is a colonist thought to be well-established now. The paucity of records is probably due to its small size which makes it easy to overlook. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In soil litter, relatively humid and shady habitats, also recorded at the side of roads and in gardens.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Status in Britain is difficult to determine due to lack of records. It is a colonist thought to be well-established now. The paucity of records is probably due to its small size which makes it easy to overlook.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Paralaoma servilis. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paralaoma servilis
What is Paralaoma servilis?
Paralaoma servilis is a species in the family Punctidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Paralaoma servilis found?
Habitat: In soil litter, relatively humid and shady habitats, also recorded at the side of roads and in gardens.
When is Paralaoma servilis active?
Paralaoma servilis: seasonal activity - All year round..