Why are the populations of so many snail species polymorphic for the coloration of their shells? No one has a definite answer, although a link with their predators is probably at least part of the answer. This blog, overseen by John Allen, does not address this question directly but seeks to advertise what we know about snail polymorphisms in the field – not to mention the thrill of the chase, whether in the fierce sun of the tropics or the dismal cold of the temperate regions. For starters, this blog takes us to Cuba, Uganda, and the UK.
Our priority is to report on a field trip to eastern Cuba to see the amazing tree-climbing Polymita picta with its spectacularly vivid polymorphism. Thanks to the British Council for a Darwin Now award to support this project.
Polymorphic snails 