succineid

Succineid is a family of land snails, commonly known as amber snails. These small to medium-sized gastropods are characterized by their thin, translucent shells, which are typically ovate in shape and open on the right side. The shells are often a yellowish or brownish color, hence the common name "amber snail."

Succineid snails are found in damp or wet habitats worldwide, often in areas with lush vegetation such as marshes, bogs, meadows, and the edges of streams and ponds. They are herbivores, feeding on algae, fungi, and soft plant matter. Their life cycle involves eggs laid in moist soil, with a larval stage that develops within the egg before hatching.

This family is divided into several genera, with Succinea being the most well-known. Despite their widespread distribution, succineids are not typically collected for food or commerce. Some species can be important in ecological contexts, serving as a food source for birds and other animals, and their presence can be an indicator of habitat quality. Their soft bodies and thin shells make them vulnerable to dehydration and predation, which influences their habitat selection and activity patterns.