The Elephant Snail shell is often completely covered over by its black mantel completely hiding the shell and appreaing like a black slug.
During the day the snail is often found hiding under rocks or in crevices looking much smaller in size and exposing the shell that colours from a whiteish grey to a whiteish green.
When active mostly at night this snails size is shown often being a big black mass moving across interidal pools. This species is a member of the keyhole limpet family, where the shell often seems to be an afterthough
How to identify Scutus antipodes?
A black bodied snail with a greyish foot and a white shield like shell on it's back. The shell is a rectangular shaped with growth rings although in older snails this may be worn or covered with growths
What habitats does Scutus antipodes live in?
Elephant Snails are found in intertidal rock pools and subtidailly under rocks
What is the distribution of Scutus antipodes?
New Zealand. Southern mainland Australia and Tasmania
How big does Scutus antipodes grow?
Shell can be up to 10cm long
Disclaimer: A lot of work goes into trying to identify and ensure accurate identifications are made and that the listed Descriptions, Sizes, Habitats and Distribution information is as accurate and valid as possible. Unfortunately, information in this arena is ever changing and as such no guarantee can be offered that it is correct or currently valid as a result the information is provided as a guide, and it is always suggested that you do a little research to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information. View the reference's or bibliography I welcome any feedback and comments on the information provided.