45 new species of snails found on Western Australian Islands

One of 45 newly discovered snails found on Western Australian Islands. Credit DEC

September 2009. Western Australian scientists and traditional Kimberley land owners are rapidly discovering new species in the State's north as part of the Kimberley islands biological survey. With field work almost complete, the survey has confirmed that the Kimberley is one of Australia's diversity hotspots for ancient camaenid land snails.

Research scientist Dr Frank Köhler said that even though they are small and might seem insignificant, the snails are an important indicator of the general condition of the islands and the threats faced by other animals.

"Although science usually moves at a snail's pace, because the islands are largely unexplored by modern science it means that we are finding previously unrecorded species very quickly and there is a surprisingly high number of them," he said.

"Each island is different and tends to support a unique set of species due to its isolation by water and therefore the species form distinct groups which differ from the mainland."

Newly discovered snail found on Boongaree Island. Credit DEC

"Just like kangaroos, these land snails are among the survivors of the major changes in climate that have taken place over the last few million years. These days, most people will not see them because they bury themselves deep in the soil or hide in crevices to escape the heat and conserve water, only emerging during the wet season. " he said

"One of the fascinating features is how you distinguish between different species through the size and shape of the male organs, so what might look like the same snail from the shell is actually another species that you'll recognise only if you look inside."

4 year survey
The survey of 22 of the largest islands in the Kimberley, designed to sample groups of mammals, reptiles, land snails, birds and plants at most risk of threats such as fire, weeds, human activity and cane toads, commenced in late 2006 and is due for completion in 2010.

The project is a collaboration between Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), the Western Australian Museum, the Australian Museum and the Kimberley Land Council

DEC is in the process of preparing a science and conservation strategy for the Kimberley as part of a $9 million State Government commitment.