The decline of native Pacific island faunas: changes in status of the land snails of Samoa through the 20th century
Cowie RH and Robinson AC. 2003. The decline of native Pacific island faunas: changes in status of the land snails of Samoa through the 20th century. Biological Conservation. 110:55-65
In 1992-1994 a survey was conducted to evaluate the land snail fauna in order to evaluate its status and, by comparison with previous surveys, to detect any trends. The results indicate that twelve species have declined (eight native, two cryptogenic); 17 (15 native, two cryptogenic) show a probable or possible decline; five (four alien, one native) have increased or possibly increased. Some species showed no clear trend; others could not be evaluated, but some of them may be extinct. The fauna faces threats similar to those faced elsewhere, primarily habitat destruction and alien species impacts. Most notable is the introduction of a predatory flatworm, Platydemus manokwari, in attempt to control the giant African snail, Achatina fulica, which became established in Samoa in the 1990s. The flatworm may or may not be able to control A. fulica but poses a serious threat to the native snail fauna. Further introduction and distribution of alien predators should be strongly discouraged.
- Type
- Journal Article
- Authors
- Cowie, Robert; Robinson, A
- Units
- NPSA , PACN
- Keywords
- Alien Species, Animal Studies, Extinction, gastropoda, Invertebrates (Insects Other), land snail, slug, Western Samoa