Prickly Snail
Acanthinula aculeata
This record describes Acanthinula aculeata (species). Recorded family: Valloniidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
Though tiny (around 2mm), this snail is distinctive with regular spines along the centre of each whorl and ribs radiating from each spine. Whilst the spines can wear off the ribs remain. It also has a circular mouth. The spines tend to collect soil and organic debris making this snail harder to detect. Typically found in woodland and hedgerow leaf-litter but also under stones and logs. There is only one recent (post 2000) record for this species and only a handful in each of the three decades prior to this. These historic records were made on a wide range of sites, including: Sheet Hedges Wood, Prior's Coppice, Dimminsdale, Stonesby Quarry and the Ashby Canal at Shackerstone.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Valloniidae
- Genus
- Acanthinula
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Typically found in woodland and hedgerow leaf-litter but also under stones and logs.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Acanthinula aculeata. 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 Prickly Snail (5)
Frequently Asked Questions About Prickly Snail
What is Prickly Snail?
Prickly Snail (Acanthinula aculeata) is a species in the family Valloniidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Prickly Snail found?
Habitat: Typically found in woodland and hedgerow leaf-litter but also under stones and logs.
When is Prickly Snail active?
Prickly Snail: seasonal activity - All year..