By Sheetal Kumari | July 10, 2025
These beautiful snails possess rainbow-hued shells and exist exclusively in Cuba’s woodlands. Every one is a natural work of art.
(Image: Canva)
The Cuban painted snail, this snail is renowned for its colourful and vibrant shell design.
(Image: Canva)
They exist exclusively in eastern Cuba’s coastlines and forests. They don’t exist anywhere else on the planet.
(Image: Canva)
Every snail’s shell is a different combination of colours and stripes. This is called polymorphism.
(Image: Canva)
Researchers think the difference in colour confuses predators—and might even help keep the snails alive in unpredictable climates.
(Image: Canva)
The snails are less than 1.2 inches in size, but contribute significantly to the health of forest ecosystems.
(Image: Canva)
They are hunted for their shells by collectors and jewellers, and the snails are in grave danger of extinction.
(Image: Canva)
Conservationists are mobilizing efforts to safeguard the snails from the threats of illegal trade and habitat destruction.
(Image: Canva)
Polymita picta received first prize in an international competition and received full genome sequencing to assist in research and conservation.
(Image: Canva)
Painted snails are living masterpieces. Let’s enjoy them in nature—not on shelves or jewel boxes.
(Image: Canva)