Wrinkled Snail
Xeroplexa intersecta
This record describes Xeroplexa intersecta (species). Recorded family: Geomitridae. Recorded order: Stylommatophora.
Identification and Appearance
7-13mm diameter. Whitish, or yellowish white, shell marked with darker bands and spots. It has a large and deep umbilicus and has rough striations on the shell. Xeroplexa gigaxi is a similar size and with similar markings but the whorls form more of a stepped profile. Banded forms of Xeroplexa may also be confused with Cernuella virgata , but Cernuella is almost globular in shape whereas Xeroplexa is relatively flattened in comparison. 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. Dry habitats, often in dunes and calcareous grassland. Often in exposed places.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Mollusca
- Order
- Stylommatophora
- Family
- Geomitridae
- Genus
- Xeroplexa
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Dry habitats, often in dunes and calcareous grassland. Often in exposed places.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Fairly common and widespread.
About Stylommatophora: the wider group
Order-level background for Stylommatophora, the group containing Xeroplexa intersecta. 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 Wrinkled Snail (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrinkled Snail
What is Wrinkled Snail?
Wrinkled Snail (Xeroplexa intersecta) is a species in the family Geomitridae, within the order Stylommatophora.
How big is Wrinkled Snail?
and with similar markings but the whorls form more of a stepped profile.
Where is Wrinkled Snail found?
Habitat: Dry habitats, often in dunes and calcareous grassland. Often in exposed places.