snail biology

Snails are soft-bodied mollusks with coiled shells that protect their fragile bodies. They move smoothly using a muscular foot that secretes mucus, reducing friction and helping them glide over surfaces. Most snails are herbivores, feeding on plants and algae, while some are omnivores or scavengers. They have a radula, a tongue-like structure with tiny teeth, to scrape food. Snails are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs, enabling them to mate with any adult of their species. They play vital roles in ecosystems, such as decomposing organic matter and serving as food for many animals.