Reproductive processes of the edible snails Helix lucorum (Linnaeus, 1758) and Eobania vermiculata (OF Muller, 1774) in their natural habitats

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe the reproductive processes of the snails Helix lucorum and Eobania vermiculata, which are abundant in Diyarbakir, SE Turkey. Reproductive behaviours and eggs of E. vermiculata and H. lucorum were monitored in the gardens of the Commodity Exchange Building, and Hevsel Gardens. The habitats of the species were observed over a one-year period (2022-2023). Helix lucorum reproduction takes place at the age of three to four years, from late October to December. The weight of the adult snails was 22 +/- 4 g. The snails laid an average of 82 +/- 12 eggs, with a weight of 0.23 +/- 0.03 mg, and diameter of 5 mm; they hatched in 30 +/- 4 days. Eobania vermiculata reproduction takes place at the age of two years, and breeding is mainly from early October to early December. The adult snails weighed 12 +/- 4 g, and laid an average of 70 +/- 14 eggs, with each egg weighing 0.16 +/- 0.04 mg and measuring 3 mm in diameter. They hatched in 32 +/- 5 days. In summary, the study offers details on the reproductive processes of two commercially significant snails, whose breeding habits may vary based on local climatic conditions.