Most people think of snails as small, brown creatures inching across a garden after rain. But some species look as if they’ve been hand-painted, with shells covered in vivid stripes, swirls, spots and colours that rival tropical birds and butterflies.

In fact, one group of snails found only in Cuba is so beautiful that scientists say collectors have targeted its shells, putting the species at risk. Researchers from Cuba and the UK are now working to protect these striking creatures before they disappear.

Here are five of the world’s most beautiful snails, which are no less than artwork.

1. Cuban painted snail

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Bolde Studios | Becca Bolde (@boldestudios)

Story continues below this ad

Often called the world’s most beautiful snail, the Polymita tree snail is found only in eastern Cuba. Its shell can feature dazzling combinations of red, yellow, orange, green, blue and white, making each one look unique.

Scientists are especially concerned about these snails because their colourful shells are collected and sold as decorative objects and jewellery. Some species, including Polymita sulphurosa, are considered highly endangered. These tiny wonders are just 20 mm to 30 mm in length.

2. Candy cane snail

Candy cane snails have vibrant white shells marked with 3 to 6 spiraling bands of brown, black, pink, green, or yellow

Native to the Caribbean, the candy cane snail, Liguus virgineus, looks exactly as its name suggests. Its shell is decorated with bright, colourful stripes that resemble a festive candy cane.

The tree-dwelling species has long fascinated shell collectors because of its eye-catching appearance and remarkable range of colour patterns.

Story continues below this ad

3. Flamingo tongue snail

This snail’s spots are on its mantle, not its shell, which is actually plain white or pale yellow

The flamingo tongue snail may be small, but it is impossible to ignore. Found in the warm waters of the Caribbean and western Atlantic, it appears to be covered in orange-and-black leopard-like markings.

Interestingly, the colourful pattern comes from the snail’s living mantle, a layer of tissue that covers the shell. When the animal dies, the shell underneath is plain white.

4. Precious wentletrap

This snail’s porcelain-white shell resembles a spiral staircase

The precious wentletrap is admired not for bright colours but for its elegant shape. Its shell features perfectly spaced spiral ridges that create a striking staircase-like appearance.

For centuries, collectors prized these shells for their unusual beauty, and they were once among the most sought-after seashells in the world.

Story continues below this ad

5. Albino giant African land snail

These snails are strictly illegal to own, sell, or import in countries like the United States

The giant African land snail is already impressive because of its size, but albino varieties are especially striking. Their pale cream or ivory shells and light bodies give them an almost otherworldly appearance.

Explore more captivating stories about pets and animals here, and make us your daily stop for the latest from the animal kingdom.