Tersinidae

The Tersinidae are a family of small to medium-sized land snails and slugs, belonging to the clade Eupulmonata within the gastropod mollusks. This family is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, with some species extending into the southern United States. Tersinidae are characterized by their relatively simple shell morphology, often featuring a low, conical, or depressed shape with a smooth or slightly ribbed surface. Some species lack a shell entirely, exhibiting a slug-like form.

Members of this family are typically terrestrial, inhabiting moist environments such as forests, grasslands, and wetlands. They play a role in decomposition by feeding on decaying plant material, contributing to nutrient cycling in their ecosystems. Tersinidae are generally small, with shells rarely exceeding 2 centimeters in diameter, though some species may grow slightly larger.

The taxonomy of Tersinidae has been a subject of debate, with some researchers classifying them within the family Polygyridae or considering them a distinct lineage. Molecular studies have provided insights into their phylogenetic relationships, suggesting a closer affinity to other neotropical land snail families. The family includes several genera, such as *Tersina*, *Tropidophora*, and *Pseudotersina*, each containing multiple species adapted to specific habitats.

Conservation status varies among species, with some facing threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and invasive predators. Due to their relatively small size and often cryptic lifestyles, many tersinid species remain understudied, limiting comprehensive conservation assessments. Efforts to document and protect these snails often rely on regional field surveys and ecological monitoring.