Skip to main content
Invasive Species: Heath Snail

Invasive Species: Heath Snail

Heath Snail

(Xerolenta obvia)
*Detected in Michigan*

PROHIBITED IN MICHIGAN

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool.

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone - MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home.

 

Identification:

  • Chalky white colored shell with dark spiral bands.
  • Flattened shell shape with relatively large umbilicus (hole on in the center of the shell’s underside).
  • Aperture (opening) of the shell is oval.

heath snails
Photo courtesy of Ross Mayhew, Schooner Specimen Shells, Bugwood.org.

Diet: In Southern Germany, heath snails feed on fodder crops (e.g., clover, sainfoin, lupine, alfalfa and serradella).

Habitat: Heath snails predominantly inhabit open, dry habitats such as dunes, sand hills, open meadows and rocky hillsides.

Native Range: Areas of southeastern Europe.

Local Concern: Heath snails infest a wide variety of plant species including grapes, peas, beans and other agricultural crops.

MORE INFORMATION:

Heath Snail Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF