Species spotlight VII

Eobania vermiculata (Müller, 1774)
Żurrieq, Malta

The steppe areas of Malta are frequently populated by large snails from the family Helicidae, amongst which this species, Eobania vermiculata, commonly prevails. The shape and pattern of the shell is highly variable. In Malta, this is not a species utilized for food, unlike in the rest of Europe.

Rabat, Malta

Shell identification:

• large thick shell
• white base colour
• frequently banded
• flared lip