Gastropoda

Gastropoda is a large class of animals within the mollusk family, including species like snails and slugs. They are characterized by their distinct, often coiled shells (in snails) and a muscular foot used for movement. Gastropods have a head with tentacles and eyes, and a specialized feeding structure called a radula—similar to a tongue with tiny teeth. They live in diverse environments, from aquatic to terrestrial habitats. Their body undergoes a process called torsion during development, which twists their internal organs and influences their asymmetrical body plan. They play vital roles in ecosystems, such as grazing on algae and recycling nutrients.