Indoplanorbis

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Indoplanorbis is a genus of air-breathing freshwater snails, aquatic pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Planorbidae, the ram's horn snails and their allies.

Description

Species within the genus Indoplanorbis are characterized by their planispiral shells, which are coiled in a single plane. These snails are known for their ability to breathe air, thanks to their pulmonate nature, which allows them to inhabit a variety of freshwater environments.

Distribution

Indoplanorbis species are primarily found in the Indo-Malayan region. They inhabit a range of freshwater habitats, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.

Ecology

Indoplanorbis snails play a significant role in their ecosystems. They are often involved in the breakdown of organic material, contributing to the nutrient cycle in aquatic environments. Additionally, they serve as a food source for various predators, including fish and birds.

Medical Importance

Some species within the genus Indoplanorbis are of medical importance as they can act as intermediate hosts for trematode parasites that cause schistosomiasis in humans. This makes them a subject of interest in public health and parasitology.

Species

The genus Indoplanorbis includes several species, such as:

• Indoplanorbis exustus

Research and Studies

Research on Indoplanorbis focuses on their role in the transmission of parasitic diseases, their ecological impact, and their potential use in biological control programs.

Conservation

The conservation status of Indoplanorbis species varies. Some populations may be threatened by habitat destruction, pollution, and other environmental changes. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect these snails and their habitats.

See Also

• Planorbidae
• Pulmonate
• Schistosomiasis
• Freshwater snail