Abstract
Floating behavior of the freshwater snail Semisulcospira libertina was observed under controlled conditions in experimental tanks. Individuals were categorized by size into three groups based on shell width: juveniles (1–3 mm), semi-adults (3–6 mm), and adults (˃6 mm). Seven individuals from each size group were placed in small cylindrical containers (300 mL volume) at an average temperature of 12.4 °C. Observations were conducted every 2 to 14 hours over a period of 5 to 7 days. The proportion of individuals exhibiting floating behavior was recorded for each size group. Snails from all size categories demonstrated this behavior, in which they floated upside down while adhering to the water surface. Juveniles displayed the highest frequency of floating, followed by semi-adults and adults. This floating behavior was easily disrupted by mild external stimuli. This behavior may facilitate short-term dispersal in natural environments, which could potentially aid in the expansion of the species distribution.
