Cochlicopa

Cochlicopa is a genus of small, air-breathing land snails, terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Cochlicopidae. The genus was first described by the French zoologist Jean-Baptiste de Lamarck in 1822. Cochlicopa species are native to Europe and North Africa, and they are known for their distinctive shell shape and coloration.

The shell of Cochlicopa species is typically small, measuring around 10-15 millimeters in diameter. It is usually ovate or oval in shape, with a smooth surface and a distinct aperture. The shell color varies among species, ranging from light brown to dark reddish-brown, with a prominent spiral sculpture that gives the shell a distinctive appearance.

Cochlicopa species are herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. They are active during the day and are often found in moist, shaded habitats such as woodlands, gardens, and hedgerows.

The genus Cochlicopa includes several species, with the most well-known being Cochlicopa lubrica, which is commonly found in Europe. Other species in the genus include Cochlicopa acuta, Cochlicopa atra, and Cochlicopa lubrica. The taxonomy of the genus is still a subject of ongoing research, and new species may be discovered in the future.

Cochlicopa species play an important role in their ecosystems, as they contribute to the decomposition of plant material and the recycling of nutrients. They are also of interest to scientists studying the evolution and diversity of land snails.