Micrarionta feralis
Overview
Micrarionta feralis, the fraternal snail or San Nicolas Island snail, is a species of air-breathing land snail. It is a terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusk in the family Helminthoglyptidae. This species is endemic to the United States, specifically California.
Micrarionta feralis faces severe population decline due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in southern California. The species is particularly vulnerable to drought conditions that desiccate its preferred microhabitats, while invasive plant species alter the native vegetation communities it depends upon. Fire suppression practices have also modified the natural fire regimes that historically maintained suitable habitat conditions.
Habitat
This terrestrial gastropod inhabits coastal sage scrub and chaparral communities in southern California, typically found under rocks, logs, and leaf litter in areas with adequate moisture retention. The species requires specific microhabitat conditions with native vegetation cover and appropriate soil chemistry.
Other threatened species in HELMINTHOGLYPTIDAE
Threatened in United States
Frequently asked questions
Why is Micrarionta feralis classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Micrarionta feralis live?
What are the main threats to Micrarionta feralis?
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