Snails and slugs are often considered to be one and the same but there are some key differences between these two creatures. For starters snails have a hard protective shell that they can retreat into when they feel threatened. Slugs on the other hand don’t have a shell at all. This makes them more vulnerable to predators and the elements.
Snails are also generally much slower than slugs. This is due in part to their shell which can weigh them down. Slugs on the other hand can move fairly quickly thanks to their slimy bodies which helps them to glide across the ground.
Generally speaking snails are more likely to be found in damp shady areas while slugs tend to prefer drier sunnier spots. This is likely because snails need their shells to help them retain moisture while slugs can lose water more easily through their skin.
So while snails and slugs may look similar there are some key differences between these two creatures. Next time you see one of these slimy creatures take a closer look and see if you can tell whether it’s a snail or a slug!
What is a snail?
Answer: A snail is a small spiral-shaped mollusc.
What is a slug?
Answer: A slug is a univalve mollusc with a soft slimy body.
How do snails and slugs move?
Answer: Snails and slugs move by extending and contracting their muscular foot.
This motion is aided by the secretion of mucus which helps them to glide across surfaces.
What do snails and slugs eat?
Answer: Snails and slugs are herbivores and feed on a variety of plants.
Where do snails and slugs live?
Answer: Snails and slugs can be found in a variety of habitats including gardens forests and even in cities.
Are snails and slugs harmful to humans?
Answer: While snails and slugs are not harmful to humans some species can carry diseases which can be passed on to humans if they are consumed.
How do snails reproduce?
Answer: Snails reproduce by laying eggs.
The eggs are usually laid in a moist environment such as under leaves or in soil.
How do slugs reproduce?
Answer: Slugs reproduce by laying eggs.
The eggs are usually laid in a moist environment such as under leaves or in soil.
What is the difference between a snail and a slug?
Answer: The main difference between a snail and a slug is that snails have a shell while slugs do not.
Do all snails have shells?
Answer: No not all snails have shells.
Some species of snail have lost their shells over the course of evolution.
Do all slugs have shells?
Answer: As slugs are a type of snail all slugs have shells.
How big can snails and slugs get?
Answer: The size of snails and slugs varies depending on the species.
Some species can grow to be quite large while others remain quite small.
What is the lifespan of a snail?
Answer: The lifespan of a snail varies depending on the species but most snails live for 1-5 years.
What is the lifespan of a slug?
Answer: The lifespan of a slug varies depending on the species but most slugs live for 1-5 years.
Are snails and slugs endangered?
Answer: No snails and slugs are not currently endangered.
