Planid

Planid is a genus of small, often brightly colored, terrestrial snails, terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Planorbidae. The genus is native to freshwater habitats in Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. Planid snails are characterized by their spiral, conical shells, which can vary in size and color depending on the species. They are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs, and they reproduce sexually. Planids are known for their ability to change color, a behavior known as chromatophores, which helps them blend into their surroundings and avoid predators. They are also known for their ability to regenerate lost body parts, a trait that is shared with other members of the class Gastropoda. Planid snails play an important role in their ecosystems, serving as a food source for various predators and contributing to nutrient cycling. They are also of interest to scientists studying the evolution of color change and regeneration in mollusks.