Snail type influences lifespan and shell diameter. Helix Aspersa Maxima, Helix Aspersa Muller and Helix Pomatia have their peculiarities of breeding and features.
Big grey snail
It is also known under the names Helix Aspersa Maxima or Gros Gris. It was bred and presented in 1978. In the period, when it was presented, it was possible to cultivate them only in spring and summer, but 10 generations process of breeding helped cultivate in cold seasons as well.
Now Helix Aspersa Maxima is very popular for breeding. Ukrainian climate is appropriate to grow Gros Gris here. 5-7 months are required for the grey snail to achieve consumer criteria.
The weight of an adult species is 16-25 grams (sometimes 30 g), the diameter of shell is 40-45 mm. Thus, it is one of the largest mollusks on the Earth.
Grey small snail
This is big grey type subtype. Its names are: Helix Aspersa Muller, Petit Gris. Moreover, this type is also called garden snail.
Adult snail has a shell diameter from 25 to 40 mm and 35 mm of height. Its weight is from 6 to 10 gr. They can reach the suitable consumption size earlier than big grey snail. The latter needs 5-6 months to do it.
In nature, young snails need 1-2 years to reach maturity. Taking onto account that they face many enemies in nature, their life expectancy is quite low. Small gray snails are appreciated in cooking due to their size, because their meat is sweet, tender, and juicy. They are convenient to cook and eat. In addition, they have very tender and juicy meat.
Grape (burgundy) snail
Grape Snails are for the preparation of Escargot. Their meat is the most juicy and tasty. The species from the province of Burgundy are considered particularly tasty.
Due to the climate of Ukraine, they are gown on open farms. In comparison with Helix Aspersa, this type matures within one to three years. During this time, they grow a shell with a diameter of 40-45 mm and increase weight up to 35 grams.
In the wild, these species are able to live for 8 years, however, they often du=ie because of the predators’ attacks.
Bonus: Interesting facts
Akhatina is the biggest type of terrestrial snails. They are edible, however, epopel usully buy them as pets. Diameter of shell may reach 30 cm.
Grape snails live long. Other types live less:
- Akhatins live 5 years (sometimes 10 years);
- Apple snail lives 4 years;
- Phyza lives 14 months.