Polynesian Tree Snail
Samoana ganymedes
Photo: Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
Overview
Samoana ganymedes, common name the "Polynesian tree snail", is a species of tropical, air-breathing land snail, a terrestrial, pulmonate, gastropod mollusc in the family Partulidae. This species is endemic to Tahuata and Hiva Oa, Marquesas Islands, French Polynesia.
Samoana ganymedes faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Samoa. Introduced predatory species, particularly the rosy wolf snail (Euglandina rosea), pose an additional critical threat to remaining populations. The species' restricted distribution and specialized habitat requirements make it extremely vulnerable to environmental changes and human disturbance.
Habitat
This endemic land snail inhabits native rainforest environments in Samoa, typically found in leaf litter and on vegetation in humid, shaded areas. The species requires specific moisture conditions and is closely associated with undisturbed forest ecosystems at various elevations.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PARTULIDAE
Threatened in French Polynesia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Polynesian Tree Snail classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Polynesian Tree Snail live?
What are the main threats to Polynesian Tree Snail?
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