Snails can hide in their shells for months or even years, slowing metabolism and sealing in moisture to survive harsh conditions.

Animals have evolved crab-like bodies at least five times throughout history, a process known as carcinization.

You’re in good company if you’ve combed the shoreline for shells, marveled at the glinting, microscopic pieces that make up the sand, or held a snail shell up to your ear listening for the ocean or ...