Transparent snails lost in the underworld

  • Zospeum tholussum found in Croatian caves
Zospeum tholussum found in Croatian caves
 

Deep in Croatian caves, minuscule snails with transparent shells have been discovered that have evolved without eyes due to the darkness of their surroundings. The tiny animals, Zospeum tholussum, are only 2 mm high and they carry intricate, domed-shaped shells on their back that are totally translucent. They move around so slowly that it is thought they use water and passing animals to travel more widely when needed.