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How Snail Shells Could Help Scientists Track Storms From Prehistoric Times

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24.09.2026

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How Snail Shells Could Help Scientists Track Storms From Prehistoric Times

Researchers linked growth spurts in a snail’s shell to 2 cyclones, suggesting shells could help uncover ancient storm tracks.

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Some of the best keepers of the past’s weather events might be the brainless mollusks crawling through the dirt, occasionally getting crunched with a sickening crackle beneath your shoe.

According to a study published in the journal The Holocene, researchers at the University of Queensland discovered that land snails carry a detailed, indestructible weather log permanently etched right onto their backs. Pretty dope, right?

The team, led by Dr. Nicholas Patton, looked into the shell of a Biggenden Banded Snail (Figuladra........

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