This is not a metaphor nor a whimsical interpretation, like the USS Constitution nicknamed "Old Ironsides" for its uncommonly strong wooden hull's ability to withstand cannon fire.

No, its shell is made of iron, specifically iron sulfides, and while a refrigerator magnet might not stick to it (sorry Realtors nationwide) it is in fact the only known creature alive today to incorporate iron into its skeleton.

It is more commonly known as the "scaly-foot snail" and its sciency name is "Chrysomallon squamiferum" and while calling it a "Volcano Snail" is certainly cool, I prefer:

Iron Mollusk.

The creature lives around deep-sea hydrothermal vents and can withstand temperatures up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit and ocean pressures that would crush a human being like Joe Biden crushes hopes and dreams.

It feeds on bacteria and draws minerals from its environment.

Interestingly, it has no genes that are particularly unique, but rather combines them differently to produce its unique abilities.

While the snail is small, not much more than an inch across, it is tough and researchers are exploring ways in which the snail's attributes could have potential human applications.

One possible direction now is how their iron-coated shells withstand heavy blows, which can provide us insights on ways to make a more protective armour.

I guess they actually hit the thing with a hammer.

I'd be careful guys, anything with an iron shell could still have a few tricks up its sleeve. Or tentacle.