Gastropod

Gastropods are a large and diverse taxonomic class within the phylum Mollusca. The class includes snails and slugs of all kinds and all sizes from microscopic to large. There are many thousands of species of sea snails and sea slugs, as well as freshwater snails, freshwater limpets, land snails and land slugs.

Anatomy

The structure of a typical gastropod is usually divided into a head, a foot, and a visceral mass. The head usually bears the mouth, tentacles, and eyes, while the foot is a muscular organ used for locomotion. The visceral mass contains the internal organs.

Classification

Gastropods are classified into three main subclasses: Prosobranchia, Opisthobranchia, and Pulmonata. Prosobranchia are mostly marine and include the largest gastropods, Opisthobranchia are also mostly marine and include the sea slugs and sea hares, and Pulmonata are air-breathing snails and slugs.

Habitat and Distribution

Gastropods are found in almost all habitats, from the deepest marine environments to the highest mountains. They are found in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments.

Reproduction

Most gastropods are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. Some species, however, are dioecious, with separate male and female individuals.

Human Interaction

Gastropods have a significant impact on humans. Some species are used as food, others are pests in gardens and agriculture, and some are vectors of diseases.

See Also

• Mollusca
• Snail
• Slug

Gastropod Resources
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