Helix Aspersa, commonly known as the Garden Snail or Common Brown Snail, is a species of land snail within the family Helicidae. It is one of the most widely distributed species of snail in the world, with a notable presence across:
This snail has a brown shell with darker spiral bands, and its shell can grow up to 30-35 mm in diameter. The body of Helix Aspersa is greyish to yellow in color, with darker spots or speckles. Its shell is characterized by a high, conical spire, and the aperture (the opening of the shell) is rounded and has a thin lip.
Helix Aspersa thrives in a variety of environments, including gardens, parks, and agricultural fields, where it feeds on a wide range of plant material, often being considered a pest. It has been both intentionally and accidentally introduced to many parts of the world, where it has become invasive in some regions:
Helix Aspersa is a hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. However, they typically require a partner to reproduce. The mating process involves the exchange of sperm, leading to egg-laying after several weeks. These eggs are laid in clutches of 30-120 in moist soil, where they incubate for about two weeks before hatching.
Helix Aspersa is not considered endangered; in fact, its invasiveness in some regions has led to efforts for control and management. Its adaptability and reproductive rate make it a species of concern in areas where it is not native.