Romania #1883 (1966) – Land Snail (Helix leucorum)

Helix leucorum, commonly known as the White-lipped Snail, is a species of land snail belonging to the family Helicidae. These snails are terrestrial and are widely distributed in parts of Europe. Here are some key characteristics and information about Helix leucorum:

1. Distribution: Helix leucorum is found in various parts of Europe, including countries like France, Italy, and Switzerland. They inhabit a range of environments, including forests, grasslands, and rocky areas.
2. Size: The size of these snails can vary, but adult shells typically have a diameter of around 15 to 25 millimeters.
3. Shell: The shell of Helix leucorum is typically dextral, meaning it coils in a right-handed spiral. The shell is relatively small and has a conical shape with several whorls. One of its distinguishing features is the white lip around the aperture, which gives the species its common name, “White-lipped Snail.”
4. Color: The shell color can vary from light to dark brown or even reddish-brown, and it often has a slightly glossy appearance. The white lip is a notable characteristic that distinguishes this species from other land snails.
5. Habitat: White-lipped Snails are found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky areas. They prefer environments with ample vegetation and shelter.
6. Feeding: Like most land snails, Helix leucorum is a herbivore. They primarily feed on plant material, including leaves, fungi, and decaying plant matter. They use a radula, a specialized feeding organ, to scrape and consume plant material.
7. Behavior: These snails are typically active at night (nocturnal) and during periods of high humidity. During the day and dry conditions, they often seek shelter to conserve moisture and reduce the risk of desiccation.
8. Reproduction: Land snails like Helix leucorum are hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce by exchanging sperm with another snail during mating. After mating, they lay eggs in the soil, which hatch into juvenile snails that gradually grow into adults.
9. Ecological Role: Land snails like Helix leucorum play a role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem processes by breaking down plant material and returning nutrients to the soil. They can also serve as a food source for various predators, including birds, insects, and other invertebrates.

These snails are interesting subjects for ecological research and are an integral part of the ecosystems they inhabit.