A single genetic mutation can be the difference between life and death

Can a snail be left-handed? (And why it may save their life) · 8:36 · Video: Natural History Museum · Watch at the source

In short: In the natural world, being different is often a survival strategy. This video explores how a simple genetic shift in snails creates a defense mechanism against specialized predators.

Curator Jon Ablett examines how left-handedness in snails serves as a vital evolutionary response to predation. When faced with snakes that have adapted to hunt right-handed snails, a mutation allowing for left-handedness provides a distinct advantage. The video uses specimens from the Natural History Museum to illustrate these bizarre mating behaviors and the mechanics of natural selection in action.

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