TERRESTRIAL GASTROPODS: SHOULDERBAND SNAILS

Defined by their charismatic swirls and cryptic nature, terrestrial snails are one of the most overlooked members of local ecosystems. Restricted in their distribution, most land snails are endemic to the regions they occupy. Found tucked within sycamore bark and in nooks of sandstone talus, genera such as Helminthoglypta are represented by only a few species in the Ojai region. One species in particular, H. willetti, is found in oak woodlands and riparian zones throughout the watershed. They rely on fallen limbs of established trees for refuge, where they conceal themselves in moist lignin. Their sedentary nature proves them useful as indicators of habitat quality. We are eager to begin work this fall to improve local forest health by the removal of non-native species like giant reed (Arundo donax), Spanish broom (Spartium junceum) and tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima) and replacement with native plant communities such as the California sycamore - coast live oak alliance in hopes of restoring habitat suitability for species like the shoulderband snail. 

Martin Schenker, Restoration Field Crew Manager