Pomatia

Pomatia usually refers to Helix pomatia, the Roman snail, a large edible land snail in the family Helicidae. It is also known as the Burgundy snail or escargot and is prized in European cuisine.

Helix pomatia is a relatively large terrestrial snail. The shell is globose and typically brown with lighter bands in juveniles; adult diameter is about 28–40 mm and height about 25–35 mm. The body is grayish with a darker foot. The species is hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs, and individuals typically engage in mutual mating for fertilization.

Natural range includes much of Europe and parts of western Asia, and the snail has been introduced to other regions. It favors moist, temperate habitats such as deciduous woodlands, hedgerows, vineyards, and gardens, often on calcareous soils. It feeds mainly on leaves and other soft plant matter; calcium from the diet and soil is essential for shell development. Activity is mainly nocturnal, and they respond to rainfall; during dry periods they may aestivate to conserve moisture.

Reproduction involves long mating sessions between individuals, after which eggs are laid in moist soil. Clutches commonly contain 20–80 eggs, with incubation typically 2–4 weeks depending on temperature. Juveniles grow slowly and reach maturity after one to two years; lifespan can extend for several years in suitable conditions.

In human use, Helix pomatia is widely farmed and harvested for the culinary snail trade, especially in France, Italy, and other European countries. Conservation and farming practices are influenced by habitat loss, climate, and regulations in different regions.