perula

Perula is a genus of medium-sized land snails in the family Bradybaenidae. These snails are found in East Asia, particularly in China and Japan. They are characterized by their globose to depressed-globose shells, which are typically brown or yellowish-brown in color. The shell aperture is usually rounded or ovate, and the lip is often thickened. Perula snails are hermaphroditic, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs.

The diet of Perula snails consists mainly of decaying plant matter, fungi, and algae. They are generally found in moist environments, such as forests, gardens, and grasslands, where they can be active during humid periods. Reproduction involves the exchange of sperm between two individuals, followed by the laying of eggs in damp soil or leaf litter. The juvenile snails hatch from these eggs and grow to maturity over a period of time.

While not extensively studied, members of the Perula genus are considered part of the native malacofauna of their respective regions. Their ecological role involves contributing to nutrient cycling through decomposition. Conservation status varies among species within the genus, with some potentially facing threats from habitat loss and environmental changes. Further research is ongoing to better understand the biology and ecological significance of Perula snails.