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Egg-Laying

Male and female apple snails appear similar, except for some subtle differences in the shape of the shell. Female apple snails emerge from the water at night to lay eggs on wetland plants.

Most egg laying occurs from March through October, with peak egg laying occurring in late spring and early summer. Eggs laid on plants are usually the most visible sign that apple snails live in an area.

A female will lay approximately 20-30 eggs at one time. Eggs are wet and soft when they are first laid. They are initially pink or orange in color, but turn white as the calcified eggs harden.

Laying their eggs above the water may be a strategy to avoid the low oxygen conditions, typical for wetlands, that could prevent proper embryo development. The eggs will hatch in approximately 16-22 days. The snails that emerge from the eggs will be miniature versions of the adults.

After hatching, snails may grow quickly to adult size. Snail shell sizes from adult (left) to hatchling (right). A dime is shown for size reference.