Smooth Ramshorn

Smooth Ramshorn - Gyraulus laevis

Description

3-6mm in diameter, 1-1.5mm thick. Rounded whorls with deep sutures and without a keel. The aperture (mouth) is very rounded but offset from the previous whorl. Despite the name, it usually has radial striae but lacks the spiral striae seen in Gyraulus albus.

Similar Species

Gyraulus albus is a similar size and shape but has microscopic spiral striae. It also flatter with the aperture more in line with the previous whorl (though not completely).

Identification difficulty
Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, photographic evidence is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used. Note the shell's size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed.

Habitat

Lakes, ponds, reservoirs - rarely flowing water. It favours clean and well-vegetated water bodies.

When to see it

All year.

UK Status

Uncommon but widespread.

VC55 Status

Uncommon, though possibly under-recorded.

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

No additional images available for this species.

All NatureSpot records