Whether in the sea or on land, molluscs are more than just slugs and snails. They are sand shifters and sea monsters, plant eaters and predators, problem solvers and habitat builders. While gardeners might grumble about them, they are an essential part of the ecosystem and can even improve garden health. Molluscs are a vital food source for humans and animals, and can help cycle nutrients and filter water.
The greatest variety of molluscs can be found among shellfish. Mussels, for example, are ecosystem engineers with beds that can span hundreds of meters of coastline, protecting the shore from the impact of storms and coastal erosion. Even their protective casings are useful – humans have been gathering seashells for thousands of years, using them for decoration and as tools.
