Oxidia

Oxidia is a genus of small to medium-sized, terrestrial snails, specifically pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Oxydidae. The genus was first described by the French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Lamarck in 1801. Oxydia species are characterized by their smooth, glossy shells, which are typically ovate or oval in shape. The shells are usually light brown or gray in color, with a distinct, spiral sculpture pattern.

The distribution of Oxydia species is primarily in the Mediterranean region, with some species found in North Africa and the Middle East. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including grasslands, scrublands, and rocky areas. Oxydia snails are herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials, including leaves, flowers, and fruits.

The genus Oxydia includes several species, with the most well-known being Oxydia polymorpha. This species is often referred to as the "Mediterranean garden snail" due to its common occurrence in gardens and parks in the Mediterranean region. Other notable species include Oxydia arcuata and Oxydia forbesi.

Oxydia snails play a role in the ecosystem by contributing to the decomposition of plant material and by serving as a food source for various predators. However, they are also considered a pest in some agricultural settings due to their feeding habits. Control measures, such as the use of pesticides or physical removal, may be employed to manage Oxydia populations in these areas.