Here are the answers to the questions about the White-lipped Snail (Cepaea hortensis):

  1. What distinguishing feature sets the White-lipped Snail (Cepaea hortensis) apart from other snails in its genus?
    • The White-lipped Snail has a distinct white lip (aperture edge) around its shell opening, which differentiates it from similar species like Cepaea nemoralis that usually have a brown or dark lip.
  2. In which habitats is the White-lipped Snail commonly found?
    • It is commonly found in woodlands, grasslands, hedgerows, gardens, and sometimes in urban areas with enough vegetation.
  3. How does the shell coloration of Cepaea hortensis help it survive in its environment?
    • The variable shell coloration and banding provide camouflage against predators by blending in with leaf litter and vegetation.
  4. What is the diet of the White-lipped Snail (Cepaea hortensis)?
    • It primarily feeds on dead plant material, fungi, and sometimes fresh vegetation and algae.
  5. Describe the geographic range where Cepaea hortensis is typically located.
    • It is native to Europe and is found mainly in northern and western parts, including the British Isles and parts of Scandinavia.
  6. How does the White-lipped Snail contribute to the ecosystem?
    • By feeding on decaying plant matter and fungi, it helps in nutrient recycling and soil health.
  7. What adaptations does Cepaea hortensis have to avoid predators?
    • Besides camouflage through shell color, it can retract into its shell and seal the opening with a mucus layer to protect itself.
  8. How can you distinguish between Cepaea hortensis and the closely related Cepaea nemoralis?
    • Cepaea hortensis has a white lip around the shell opening, while Cepaea nemoralis has a brown or dark lip. Also, Cepaea hortensis tends to have a slightly smaller and paler shell.

Ah, the White-lipped Snail (Cepaea hortensis)! Here’s a quick rundown about this charming little gastropod:


🐌 White-lipped Snail (Cepaea hortensis)

Scientific name: Cepaea hortensis

Identification:

  • Medium-sized land snail.
  • Shell usually pale yellow or light brown.
  • Distinctive white lip around the shell’s opening, which helps distinguish it from close relatives like the Brown-lipped Snail (Cepaea nemoralis).
  • Shell typically has 4-5 dark brown bands running spirally.

Habitat:

  • Found in gardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, and grassy areas.
  • Prefers moist, temperate climates, common across much of Europe.

Behavior:

  • Active mainly during damp conditions, especially after rain.
  • Feeds on a variety of plants and decaying vegetation.

Interesting fact:

  • The white lip is more noticeable in mature snails, and it serves as a key characteristic for species identification.
  • Both Cepaea hortensis and Cepaea nemoralis show fascinating polymorphism β€” their shell colors and band patterns vary widely within populations, which has been a subject of evolutionary and genetic studies.

Would you like me to dig deeper into its ecology, behavior, or perhaps something else?