Wandering Snail
Ampullaceana balthica
The wandering snail is a small freshwater snail found in ponds, ditches, slow rivers, and brackish coastal waters across much of Europe and nearby regions. It grazes on algae, biofilm, and decaying plant matter using a rasp-like radula, helping recycle nutrients in shallow aquatic habitats. When threatened, it relies on its coiled shell and slow withdrawal rather than speed or aggression. A notable feature is its tolerance for variable salinity, which lets it live in habitats ranging from fresh water to mildly brackish lagoons.
- Type
- Shell
- Conservation status
- NE