Polynesian Tree Snail Fast Facts
Overview
The Polynesian Tree Snail is a tiny snail species not much bigger than a 1 pence piece. They are endemic to the French Polynesian Islands, which means they are found nowhere else in the world. At one stage 60 species snail that existed on a cluster of islands known as the Society Islands. Now over 90% of these species are extinct and the remaining species are critically endangered. They are generally found on the underside of leaves at various heights within the rainforest. They require a moist and humid environment to enable them to move around in search of food and shelter, using they muscular foot that produces a mucus to help them stick and move along on objects. These snails are a vitally important part of the eco system, feeding on the dead and decaying organic matter they help to keep the area clean and they are an important food source for other wildlife.
Diet
They feed on dead or decay organic matter.
Reproduction
These snails are hermaphrodites, meaning they possess both female and male sexual organs. If and individual can not find a mate, they can reproduce via self-fertilization. They generally give birth to just one live young.
Threats + Conservation
The main threat to the snail species was the introduction of the Rosy Wolf Snail, a carnivourous snail which descimated the Partula species. They also face threats from habitat desctruction and climate change. Several zoo's worldwide are working together to breed the Polynesian Tree Snail to reintroduce back to areas of the Poylnesian Islands. Here at Wild Discovery we are breeding 7 species to contribute to the worldwide breeding and rerelease programme.
Fun facts
They can reproduce through self fertilisation. They give birth to live young.
Partula snail