Toothless Chrysalis Snail
Columella edentula
This record describes Columella edentula (species). Recorded family: Vertiginidae. Recorded order: Pulmonata.
Identification and Appearance
A very small, cylindrical, yellow-brown to brown shell: 2.5-3mm. The aperture lacks teeth and the shell has faint, irregular growth lines. Similar to C. aspera which has a shell which is slightly broader and shorter and with more pronounced shell sculpture showing more pronounced regular growth lines. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Widespread in dampish areas such as marshes and woods, particularly in eutrophic sites. It frequently climbs up vegetation. Widespread and quite frequent in Britain. 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
Widespread in dampish areas such as marshes and woods, particularly in eutrophic sites. It frequently climbs up vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
All year round.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and quite frequent in Britain.
About Pulmonata: the wider group
Order-level background for Pulmonata, the group containing Columella edentula. 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 Toothless Chrysalis Snail (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Toothless Chrysalis Snail
What is Toothless Chrysalis Snail?
Toothless Chrysalis Snail (Columella edentula) is a species in the family Vertiginidae, within the order Pulmonata.
Where is Toothless Chrysalis Snail found?
Habitat: Widespread in dampish areas such as marshes and woods, particularly in eutrophic sites. It frequently climbs up vegetation.
When is Toothless Chrysalis Snail active?
Toothless Chrysalis Snail: seasonal activity - All year round..