fumella

Fumella is a genus of small, terrestrial snails belonging to the family Hygromiidae. These snails are native to the Mediterranean region, particularly found in Spain and parts of North Africa. They are characterized by their relatively small, globose shells, which are typically light brown or yellowish in color and possess a somewhat rough texture. The aperture of the shell is often rounded or slightly ovate.

The habitat of fumella snails commonly includes damp, shaded areas such as leaf litter, under stones, and in crevices within rocky outcrops. They are herbivorous, feeding on decaying plant matter, algae, and fungi. Like most gastropods, fumella snails are hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs. Their reproductive cycle is often tied to periods of high humidity.

Due to their specific habitat requirements and relatively limited distribution, fumella species are sensitive to environmental changes. Habitat destruction and climate change pose potential threats to their populations. While not extensively studied compared to some other mollusk groups, these snails play a role in their local ecosystems as decomposers. The exact number of species within the genus and their precise taxonomic relationships are subjects of ongoing scientific research.