Bullacta exarata, commonly known as the mud snail or "spit iron," is a species of gastropod mollusk belonging to the family Hydrobiidae. It is also referred to as the plum snail or yellow snail and is one of the most economically significant marine shellfish in coastal regions of China, particularly in Zhejiang Province, where it thrives along the coasts of Ningbo and Zhoushan. Known for its delicious meat and high nutritional value, this snail has long been a favorite among local consumers.
However, due to the degradation of marine ecosystems, the natural habitat of the mud snail has been shrinking. Coastal development, pollution, and overharvesting have led to a decline in wild populations. As a result, large-scale aquaculture has become essential to meet market demand. Today, Bullacta exarata is an important species in shellfish farming, contributing significantly to the economy of coastal communities.
**Morphology**
The body of the mud snail is elongated and slightly flattened, with a head plate at the front and a mantle at the back. Its head is large and plump, lacking true antennae and having only rudimentary eyes. The shell, which is oval-shaped and relatively thin, covers about half of the body. It is typically yellow or white, lacks a spiral structure, and does not fully enclose the snail. The shell’s surface is smooth, with fine lines visible on adult specimens. The mouth is wide, and the internal edge is smooth.
**Ecological Habits**
Mud snails inhabit intertidal zones, preferring muddy or soft sandy substrates. They are commonly found in sheltered bays where water movement is minimal. In Zhejiang, they are distributed from the mid-tide to the low-tide zones, with higher concentrations in the mid-lower areas. During high tide, they remain buried in the sediment, while during low tide, they emerge to feed on the surface. They are active during sunny days, feeding on organic debris, diatoms, and small organisms. Their survival range includes temperatures between -1.5°C and 33°C, with optimal conditions between 10°C and 25°C. They can tolerate low salinity (1.005–1.020) and a pH range of 3.74–9.0, with the best growth occurring between pH 6.11 and 8.01.
**Reproductive Behavior**
Bullacta exarata is a hermaphroditic species, capable of self-fertilization. The gonads are located on the left side of the body, and both male and female reproductive tissues are present in the same area. Mating occurs on the mudflat, lasting approximately 15 minutes, followed by spawning after about four days. Eggs are laid in a gelatinous sac, which is then buried in the sand. Development takes around four days, after which larvae swim freely before settling on the seabed. Juveniles grow slowly, reaching maturity within one year.
**Breeding Techniques**
Cultivation methods include harvesting wild seedlings, using earthen ponds, and indoor artificial breeding. Wild seedlings are collected from tidal flats during the breeding season (March–November), though spring seedlings are preferred for better survival. Earthen pond systems involve creating controlled environments with suitable substrates and food sources, such as benthic diatoms. Indoor breeding requires careful management of water quality, algae density, and temperature to ensure successful larval development.
**Aquaculture Practices**
In aquaculture, snails are stocked in ponds with soft sediments, ensuring proper water flow and protection from predators. Flat-coated culture involves fencing tidal flats to create protected areas for snail growth. Mud turtle cultivation is another method used to improve snail quality by selecting high-quality substrates and managing stocking density.
**Daily Management**
Successful mud snail farming requires regular monitoring of water levels, predator control, and prevention of escape. Fertilization with organic or inorganic materials enhances food availability, while daily observations help detect signs of stress or migration. Harvesting is typically done after 1.5 to 3 months of growth, when snails reach a weight of 300–400 per kilogram. Hand collection or specialized nets are used to minimize damage and maintain product quality.
With continued research and sustainable practices, the future of mud snail aquaculture looks promising, offering economic benefits and preserving this valuable marine resource.
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