Gastropods are a group of animals that belong to the phylum Mollusca. They are known for their unique body shape, which is characterized by a single, spiral-shaped shell. The term "gastropod" comes from the Greek word "gastēr," which means stomach, and "podos," which means foot. Gastropods include a wide range of animals, including snails, slugs, and sea snails. Synonyms for gastropods include coiled mollusks, univalves, and snail-like creatures. Regardless of their name, all gastropods share a similar body plan that allows them to move and navigate their environment with ease. With over 80,000 species of gastropods, it is easy to see why they have become such a diverse and fascinating group of animals.