Small Pointed Snail

Cochlicella barbara

Bug Life Introduced IUCN: Not Evaluated

About

Small, thin snail with a high-pointed spire. Adult shells have 7-8 whorls. Juvenile shells have fewer whorls and a pronounced keel. The shell is white, off-white, yellow or pale brown, with a colour pattern that may include dark brown bands or darker blotches and streaks. The animal is usually grey to black.

This species is native to Europe. It occurs, mostly on the coast, from north Portugal to the northwestern Mediterranean area. It has however been widely introduced in other countries including Australia. Usually lives in coastlands, in or near sandy habitats. They lay eggs of about 1mm in size. Because of their small size they are not easily detected and can very rapidly reproduce to become a serious threat to crops in their habitat.

Size

Shell up to 2 cm long

Habitat

Coastal dune heath, tussock grassland, gardens, pasture and farm areas

Distribution

Europe. North America. New Zealand. Southern mainland Australia and Tasmania

Local Sightings

1 recorded sighting in and around the area.

References & citations (1)
  1. The Atlas of Living Australia (accessed 2021-09-22 14:03:33)

Header image: (CC BY-NC 4.0) © becstummer

Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into making sure identifications, descriptions, sizes, habitats and distribution details are as accurate as possible — but this information is ever-changing, so no guarantee is offered that it is correct or currently valid. Treat it as a guide and do a little of your own research for the latest word. Feedback and corrections are always welcome.