What is a primary identifying feature of snails?

A primary identifying feature of snails is that they possess a shell. The shell is a crucial aspect of their physiology and serves several important functions. It offers protection against predators and harsh environmental conditions, provides a habitat for the snail, and aids in moisture retention, which is particularly vital for land-dwelling species. The presence of a coiled or spiral shell is characteristic of snails and distinguishes them from other mollusks. This feature is typically one of the first things people notice about snails, making it a definitive identifying characteristic.