White Ramshorn
Gyraulus albus
This record describes Gyraulus albus (species). Recorded family: Planorbidae. Recorded order: Hygrophila.
Identification and Appearance
4-7mm diameter. This small ramshorn snail has a strong, white, chalky shell with spiral , as well as radial, striations.The round mouth bends away from the main whorls at an obtuse angle. Found in both rivers and larger reservoirs, sometimes in smaller waterways.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Order
- Hygrophila
- Family
- Planorbidae
- Genus
- Gyraulus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in both rivers and larger reservoirs, sometimes in smaller waterways.
Seasonal Activity
All year.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Relatively common and widespread
About Hygrophila: the wider group
Order-level background for Hygrophila, the group containing Gyraulus albus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
This is a smaller arthropod order with specialized ecological roles. Arthropods are the most diverse animal phylum, comprising over 80% of all known animal species with approximately 1.2 million described species globally.
Ecological role of the group
Members of this order contribute to broader arthropod ecosystem functions including decomposition, predation, and serving as food sources for vertebrates. Arthropod biodiversity is essential for ecosystem resilience.
Economic and practical significance of the group
While this order has limited direct economic impact, arthropods collectively provide ecosystem services worth trillions of dollars annually through pollination, decomposition, pest control, and nutrient cycling.
Recorded sources for this group: General entomology and arthropod research. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of White Ramshorn (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About White Ramshorn
What is White Ramshorn?
White Ramshorn (Gyraulus albus) is a species in the family Planorbidae, within the order Hygrophila.
Where is White Ramshorn found?
Habitat: Found in both rivers and larger reservoirs, sometimes in smaller waterways.
When is White Ramshorn active?
White Ramshorn: seasonal activity - All year..