Rock Snail
Pyramidula umbilicata
This record describes Pyramidula umbilicata (species). Recorded family: Pyramidulidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
A small snail 2.5 to 3 mm wide. Shell tightly coiled and a depressed cone shape. Surface dark red-brown often wearing to a purplish-brown or grey with age. Marked by irregular but strong growth lines. Umbilicus very wide. 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. Confined to walls and rocks usually in limestone or chalk areas. Fairly widespread in Britain, but less common in northern and eastern areas of the country. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Pulmonata
- Family
- Pyramidulidae
- Genus
- Pyramidula
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Confined to walls and rocks usually in limestone or chalk areas.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly widespread in Britain, but less common in northern and eastern areas of the country.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Pyramidula umbilicata. 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 Rock Snail
What is Rock Snail?
Rock Snail (Pyramidula umbilicata) is a species in the family Pyramidulidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Rock Snail found?
Habitat: Confined to walls and rocks usually in limestone or chalk areas.
When is Rock Snail active?
Rock Snail: seasonal activity - All year round..