10

Anecdotally, it seems as though species of fauna and flora introduced to England and Wales during the Roman occupation are still more likely to be found near Roman settlements. Obviously, some introduced species, such as the rabbit, are now extremely widespread. But, for example Alexanders was introduced as a food plant, and still grows in profusion around Richborough Castle, the former Roman fort of Rutupiae. I have only ever seen the edible Roman snail in England in the grounds of a former Roman villa.

Has anyone studied this to see if there's actually a statistically significant correlation, 1,600 years on?

|improve this question
  • 3
    Well, plants and snails are slow, rabbits are fast. Maybe that is the correlation you are looking for? Sorry, could not resist it :-) – SJuan76 Apr 25 '17 at 9:41
  • 1
    I am not sure that this is properly and best answered in History.stackexchange, so have suggested closure in order to solicit other opinions. There is a time limit on question migration, however. – Pieter Geerkens Apr 25 '17 at 22:05
  • 3
    @SJuan76: Those edible Roman snails are still trying to find a way off the island. – Pieter Geerkens Apr 25 '17 at 22:10

Your Answer

By clicking "Post Your Answer", you acknowledge that you have read our updated terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy, and that your continued use of the website is subject to these policies.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.