Gaby
The world of mollusks is teeming with fascinating creatures, both large and small: from the tiny micro-mollusk Angustopila dominikae, which can fit through the eye of a needle, to the Australian trumpet snail, which can reach lengths of up to 91 centimeters. What is this giant snail like? Meet the Australian trumpet snail (Syrinx aruanus), the largest snail in the world and the biggest gastropod. In size, it can be compared to a border collie. This snail has a reputation as a voracious marine predator that hunts along the ocean floor, as reported by IFLScience.
But it’s not just the length of the Syrinx aruanus that is impressive; its weight is around 18 kilograms. Lifting such a giant is akin to hoisting a hefty car tire. In addition to its exquisitely shaped shell, the snail boasts a striking yellow foot. A real beauty, to say the least. This mollusk feeds on large polychaetes—segmented worms such as Polyodontes, Loimia, and Diopatra.
In 2000, researchers observed Australian trumpet snails during their hunting and dining on the muddy sandy shallows of the Whitnell Bay in Western Australia. Scientists noted that the Syrinx aruanus skillfully dealt with polychaetes, extracting them from tubes that sometimes reached lengths of 57 centimeters. It’s no wonder it’s called a trumpet snail!
Distinctive empty shells from these giant snails are popular among collectors. In the past, they were used to carry water and even served as wind instruments. Even today, these rare trumpets can occasionally be seen and heard at symphonic concerts.
