10 Surprising Animal Pairs You Didn’t Realize Are Close Relatives

9. Octopuses and Snails: Mollusk Mysteries

Octopuses and snails, two seemingly disparate creatures, share a common lineage within the phylum Mollusca. This diverse group includes animals as varied as clams, squids, and slugs, all descended from a common ancestor. Despite their differences—octopuses are known for their intelligence and complex behaviors, while snails are often slow-moving and shelled—both exhibit characteristics typical of mollusks, such as a soft body and a mantle. Their evolutionary paths highlight the adaptability of the mollusk lineage, capable of producing creatures as distinct as the highly intelligent octopus and the humble garden snail. This kinship underscores the diversity of life within the mollusk phylum and the evolutionary innovations that have allowed these animals to thrive in a wide range of environments.