These brightly coloured rainbow snails, that live in rock crevices, feeding on snails, insect larvae and some earthworm species are among three new species from the genus Perrottetia, discovered in north and northeastern Thailand. They show extraordinary endemism, i.e., they are unique to a geographical area.
Researchers say this ‘one hill one species’ is a very peculiar phenomenon. Each one of these snails is specific and the only one inhabiting a certain mountain range. But they are now at risk from extinction as their limestone habitat is destroyed by humans.
The discovery of these snails, surviving in such harsh conditions, shows us that “there are still remnants of some fundamental ecosystem” in these overly exploited areas, according to the paper.
“The three new Perrottetia species exhibit distinct morphological characteristics, which make for a great example for evolutionary studies in unstable environments,” explains co-author Somsak Panha in a press release.
Somsak also points out “More than 50% of limestone ecosystems in this region have been or still are being destroyed. This astonishing case of biodiversity persistence gives a valuable reason to put effort in the conservation of this important world ecosystem. ”
These new species are immediately faced with the threat of extinction unless something can be done to protect their rapidly vanishing ecosystem.
Credit : Mongabay
Picture Credit : Google
