Reproduction in Snails

Terrestrials snails are hermaphrodites, a few aquatic species have separate sexes. However, self-fertilization does not occur. Mating occurs and fertilization is internal.

To replace, two matured snails pair up to inseminate each other. Each member produces a special structure called spermatophore. The spermatophore is pushed into the partner’s body thereby transferring sperm cells into the sperm pouch of each other each partner’s egg ate then fertilised with the sperm cells from the copulating partner when each is ready to lay eggs. Eggs are laid in shallow top soil while the weather is warm and damp. After about 2-4 weeks, the eggs hatch and the young ones emerge. Snails are prolific breeders. They can lay up to 100 eggs in a single breed and can lay eggs once every mouth.

Mating in Snails:

Reproductive Structure of a Snail

EVALUATION (POST THE QUESTION TITLE AND YOUR ANSWER IN THE QUESTION BOX BELOW FOR EVALUATION AND DISCUSSION)

1. Briefly describe how snails reproduce.
2. What is a spermatophore?
3. What is the duration between fertilisation of eggs and eggs hatching into small snails?
4. Snails are prolific breeders. Explain