Charopidae

Charopidae is a family of air-breathing land snails, terrestrial gastropod mollusks. This family belongs to the superfamily Helicoidea, which includes many common garden snails. Charopidae snails are typically small to medium-sized and are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even disturbed areas. Their shells are generally thin and coiled, with varying degrees of sculpture.

The distribution of Charopidae is predominantly in the Southern Hemisphere, with significant diversity in Australia, New Zealand, and South America. Some species have also been introduced to other parts of the world. These snails play roles in their ecosystems as herbivores, feeding on decaying plant matter, fungi, and algae.

Classification within Charopidae can be complex, with ongoing research refining the relationships between genera and species. Key genera include Charopa, Phorticos, and Gyliotrachela, among others. The family is characterized by specific anatomical features, particularly in their reproductive systems and radulae, which are used for scraping food. Conservation statuses vary among species, with some being common and widespread, while others may be rare or endangered due to habitat loss or other environmental pressures.