Leptaxis wollastoni
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA) — Species of gastropod
Overview
Leptaxis wollastoni is an endangered species of air-breathing land snail, a terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusc in the family Helicidae, the typical snails. This species is endemic to Madeira.
Leptaxis wollastoni faces severe threats from habitat destruction as native laurel forests are cleared for agriculture and urban development on Madeira. The species is highly vulnerable to invasive plant species that alter the understory composition of its forest habitat, reducing suitable microhabitats for feeding and reproduction. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that affect the humid conditions essential for this terrestrial gastropod's survival.
Habitat
This endemic land snail inhabits the humid laurel forests (laurisilva) of Madeira, particularly in areas with dense canopy cover and rich leaf litter. It requires specific microhabitat conditions including high humidity, stable temperatures, and abundant organic matter for feeding.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in HYGROMIIDAE
Threatened in Portugal
Frequently asked questions
Why is Leptaxis wollastoni classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Leptaxis wollastoni live?
What are the main threats to Leptaxis wollastoni?
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