Viviparus River Snail
Viviparus viviparus
The Viviparus river snail lives in slow-moving rivers, canals, lakes, and other freshwater habitats across parts of Europe. It creeps over submerged surfaces and soft sediment, grazing algae, biofilm, and decaying plant material with its radula. When threatened, it withdraws into its sturdy spiral shell and seals the opening with an operculum. Unlike many snails that lay eggs, females retain developing young and give birth to live, fully formed juveniles.
- Type
- Water
- Conservation status
- LC