Sphincterochila boissieri snails adapt to the Negev Desert

The Sphincterochilidae family, specifically Sphincterochila boissieri, has successfully adapted to survive in extremely arid environments such as the Negev Desert, the Dead Sea Basin, the West Bank, and the North Sinai.

To endure extreme heat and drought, these snails utilize several physiological mechanisms. Their white, spherical shells reflect up to 90% of sunlight. During hot months, they enter a state of aestivation, retreating into their shells and sealing the opening with a calcareous membrane called an epiphragma to prevent dehydration. They also bury themselves up to 10 cm deep in the soil to escape surface heat.

These snails are active for only 20 to 25 days a year, typically following winter rains, which is when they feed, mate, and lay eggs. They are not considered pests, as they feed on algae, lichens, and organic detritus rather than living plants.