Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Apple snails and their place in the pond

I have apple snail eggs all over every piece of cover above the water table of my 25 acre lake.
This is a natural lake with a variety of fish, including bass, bluegill, crappie, and shellcracker (ie RES).

My question is, what role do the snails play in the ecosystem? Will they serve as a significant food source? Will they benefit the water quality?

I am not too educated on snails.