The Pace of a Snail
Snails are important components of ecosystems. They contribute to carbon flow, which in turn contributes to energy flow in ecosystems. While some snails in aquatic environments feed primarily on algae, land species can feed on carrion, fruit, mushrooms, and some are even carnivorous. Others help in the breakdown of leaf litter and fallen trees. They are also important sources of food for many animals.
Today's photo is a type of snail that resembles a ram's horn. This is only one of many groups of snails. Some are only one millimeter in size, while others can measure several inches.
To better understand the aquatic snails of Pennsylvania, WPC has initiated a multi-year study of springs, streams, lakes, wetlands, and reservoirs. A variety of snails can be found in Lake Pleasant in Erie County.
Today's photo is courtesy of http://members.aol.com/mkohl2/Neritidae.
E-mail Today's WPC Daily to a Friend!
Rediscover western Pennsylvania every morning with WPC Daily.
Become a Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Member
The votes are in: (and so is September's Screen Wallpaper Calendar) View the winning WPC Daily
Review and vote for the best of August