Reproduction


The exact reproductive cycle of this species of snail is not known yet, but there can be some generalizations based on the basic snail reproduction cycles known. Since L. pustuloides is a land snail and in the subclass Pulmonata, we know that it is a monoecious animal, meaning it is hermaphroditic with both male and female reproductive organs in one animal. Based upon this information we also know that these snails undergo direct development, meaning newly hatched juveniles look like adults. As a general rule, fertilization in snails is internal and although snails can fertilize themselves, they tend to pass packets of sperm, called spermatophores, between individuals to avoid self-fertilization. Once fertilization has happened, the snail must then deposit the eggs; usually they are deposited into holes in the ground or under logs. I would imagine L. pustuloides would even be able to deposit eggs under leaves in moist areas without much of a risk as they are so incredibly small it would be hard for anything to cause them harm. Once the juvenile snails emerge from their eggs, the fight for life ensues. They must quickly learn where to hide, what to eat, and what to avoid.

You can check out some cool Adaptations these snails have acquired.

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