Perdicella ornata
| Perdicella ornata | |
|---|---|
_-_Achatinellidae_-_Mollusc_shell.jpeg) | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Mollusca |
| Class: | Gastropoda |
| Order: | Stylommatophora |
| Family: | Achatinellidae |
| Genus: | Perdicella |
| Species: | P. ornata |
| Binomial name | |
| Perdicella ornata (Newcomb, 1854) | |
Perdicella ornata is a species of tropical, tree-living, air-breathing, land snails in the family Achatinellidae. This species is endemic to Hawaii in the United States.
Description
P. ornata has a shiny, acutely pyramidal shell with six margined whorls[3] that reaches a height of approximately 1.48 cm.[4] The shell's surface is patterned longitudinally with alternating white and black zigzags.[5][3] The shell's lips are slightly thick at the edge, and the columella is broad and flattened.[3]
Distribution and habitat
P. ornata is endemic to the island of Maui. In 1853, it was found in the rainforest on Mt. Helu in western Maui, while another population was found in east Maui.[4] In a small area, this species can also be found in a deep ravine behind Lahaina.[6] It thrives in arboreal areas.[2]
Conservation threats
Its global status is G1, indicating that it is critically endangered and at high risk of extinction. It was last reviewed on August 7, 1990. In 1982, only one population was reported from West Maui.[2] Its national status is N1, indicating that it is in grave danger of extinction due to its small population and number of occurrences, limited range, severe threats, and other aspects.
The species' state status is S1, comparable to G1. Threats to P. ornata include over-collection, invasive predators such as Euglandina, Oxychilus, and rats.[2] Another threat is destruction of habitat, possibly due to climate change.
The preservation of these snails and their fragile ecosystems depends heavily on conservation efforts since it is said to be not managed and protected.[2] In order to preserve populations, stop habitat loss, and lessen the effects of climate stress, advocacy for conservation and awareness-building and its importance are crucial. Because of the inspiration that P. ornata's intricate shells provide[4][5] for art, stories, history, culture, survival, creativity, cultural responsibility, and educational programs, protecting this species measures Maui's ability to steward its lands and its communities.
References
- ↑ Seddon, M.B. (1996). "Perdicella ornata". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 1996 e.T16600A6164971. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.1996.RLTS.T16600A6164971.en. Retrieved 16 November 2021.
- 1 2 3 4 5 NatureServe. "Perdicella ornata". NatureServe Explorer. Arlington, Virginia. Retrieved 2 May 2026.
- 1 2 3 "Molluscabase". Retrieved 20 February 2024.
- 1 2 3 ""Achatinellidae" Dead as the Dodo – Holocene Extinctions". Retrieved 20 February 2024.
- 1 2 "Perdicella". dlnr.hawaii.gov. Retrieved 2026-05-03.
- ↑ ""Type Specimens of Hawaiian Land Snails". Paleontological Research Institution. Retrieved 22 February 2024.