Oxychilidae

Oxychilidae is a family of small, air-breathing land snails, commonly known as oxychilids. They are terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the superfamily Oxychiloidea. Oxychilids are found in various habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They are characterized by their small size, typically ranging from 2 to 5 millimeters in length, and their distinctive shell shape, which is usually ovate or oval with a smooth or slightly ribbed surface.

The family Oxychilidae is divided into several genera, with the most well-known being Oxychilus. Oxychilids are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual has both male and female reproductive organs. They reproduce sexually, with mating occurring in the spring. The eggs are laid in clusters on the soil surface, and the larvae hatch after a few weeks, developing through several stages before reaching adulthood.

Oxychilids play a role in the ecosystem as a food source for various predators, including birds, reptiles, and insects. They also contribute to nutrient cycling by consuming plant material and organic matter. However, their populations can be affected by environmental factors such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. Conservation efforts are underway to protect oxychilid species and their habitats.