Cochlicella

Cochlicella is a genus of small, air-breathing land snails, terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Helicidae. The genus was originally described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1822. Cochlicella species are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from 10 to 20 millimeters in length, and their distinctive shell shape, which is usually conical with a smooth surface.

Cochlicella species are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and agricultural areas. They are omnivorous, feeding on a range of plant materials, including leaves, flowers, and fruits, as well as small invertebrates. Their reproductive strategy involves the production of a large number of small eggs, which are deposited in a spiral pattern on the substrate.

The genus Cochlicella includes several species, with the most well-known being Cochlicella acuta, commonly known as the sharp-shouldered snail. This species is native to Europe and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. It is considered an invasive species in some regions, where it can outcompete native species for resources and disrupt local ecosystems.

Cochlicella species play an important role in the ecosystem as both predators and prey. They help control populations of small invertebrates and contribute to the decomposition of organic matter. However, their invasive nature and potential impact on native species make them a subject of ongoing research and conservation efforts.