Achatinella

Achatinella is a genus of air-breathing land snails, terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Achatinellidae. These snails are endemic to the island of Oʻahu in Hawaii. The genus is notable for its colorful and diverse shell patterns, which have made them a subject of interest for both scientists and collectors.

Description

Shells of Achatinella collected in 1933

The shells of Achatinella species are small to medium-sized, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 cm in length. They are characterized by their glossy appearance and a wide variety of colors and patterns, including stripes and bands. The shell shape is generally elongate and conical, with a pointed apex.

Habitat

Achatinella snails inhabit the wet forests of Oʻahu, where they are found on the leaves and branches of trees and shrubs. They prefer areas with high humidity and are often found in the understory of native Hawaiian forests.

Ecology

These snails are herbivorous, feeding on the biofilm of algae, fungi, and lichens that grow on the surfaces of leaves. They play a role in the ecosystem by helping to control the growth of these organisms and contributing to nutrient cycling.

Conservation

Euglandina rosea, a predator of Achatinella

Achatinella species are critically endangered, primarily due to habitat loss, predation by introduced species, and collection by humans. The introduction of the rosy wolf snail (Euglandina rosea), the black rat (Rattus rattus), and the flatworm (Platydemus manokwari) have significantly impacted their populations.

Rattus rattus, another predator

Conservation efforts include habitat protection, captive breeding programs, and predator control. The snails are protected under the Endangered Species Act, and several reserves have been established to preserve their natural habitat.

Species

The genus Achatinella includes several species, each with unique shell patterns and colors. Some notable species include:

• Achatinella apexfulva
• Achatinella bulimoides
• Achatinella concavospira
• Achatinella decipiens
• Achatinella byronii

Related pages

• Gastropoda
• Endangered species
• Hawaiian flora and fauna