Cernuella virgata, commonly known as the white Italian snail, is a species of land snail within the Mollusca phylum. This gastropod is often recognized by its small, globular shell, which typically measures between 12 to 18 mm in diameter. The shell has a distinctive cream or white color with fine, brownish spiral bands or blotches, giving it an ornate appearance.

This species is native to the Mediterranean region, including the Comunidad Valenciana, where it's often found in a variety of habitats. These include coastal dunes, grassy fields, and agricultural lands, where they thrive in the relatively warm and humid climate.

• Habitat: Cernuella virgata is adaptable and can occupy areas such as disturbed grounds, gardens, and roadside verges.
• Diet: As a herbivorous mollusk, it primarily feeds on a wide range of vegetation, including cultivated crops, which can sometimes categorize it as a pest in agricultural settings.
• Behavior: These snails are more active during the cooler, wetter parts of the year and enter a state of aestivation during the hot summer months to conserve moisture.
• Reproduction: Cernuella virgata is known for its prolific breeding habits, with the ability to lay numerous eggs throughout its reproductive period.
• Conservation Status: This species does not face significant threats and is generally abundant, contributing to its classification as "Least Concern" by conservation organizations.

For those interested in the biodiversity of the Comunidad Valenciana, Cernuella virgata serves as an intriguing example of a mollusk species well-suited to Mediterranean climates, displaying both beauty and resilience.