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How do snails get their shells?
Dec 19, 2023
Explore the fascinating process of how snails acquire their famous spiral shells, from fanciful theories to scientific insights by experts. Discover the importance of calcium-rich diets and the role of the mantle in shell formation. Dive into the world of snails as they defend against the sun, glide with slime, and rely on antennas for direction. Uncover the mystery of snail shells and their slow growth process.
12:53
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Quick takeaways
- Snails create their spiral shells by consuming calcium-rich foods, starting with a soft shell that hardens over time.
- Snails use their shells to protect vital organs and adapt to environmental challenges with slime production and sealing behaviors.
Deep dives
How Snails Get Their Shells
Snails hatch from eggs with a small shell made by a special organ called the mantle. The shell starts soft but hardens as they consume calcium-rich foods like their own egg. Layers of the shell keep growing throughout the snail's life, spiraling out into the iconic snail shell shape. Snails have been around for millions of years, living in various habitats from deserts to rainforests, each type with its unique shell.
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