The operculum is a hard and horny structure that exists in many marine and freshwater snails. It is attached to the foot of the mollusk and serves as a trapdoor that closes the aperture of the shell when the soft parts of the animal are retracted. It is generally oval or circular in shape and fits snugly to the aperture of the shell, effectively sealing off the entrance. A small air hole allows for breathing, especially during estivation. The operculum’s most important functions are to prevent desiccation or drying out while the animal is estivating and to protect it from its predators. Instances of symbolic death are manifested by animals and plants living in the natural world.

Go, A. C. (2015, June 2). The cycle of birth, death and rebirth. Philippine Daily Inquirer, p. E3.