Why Study Tree Snails?
The research that I conduct for the Achatinella and their sub-family Achatinellinae are to perpetuate the survival of the endemic tree snails species. These tree snails are important in Hawaiian culture because they were often revered as the voice of the forest and subjects of both hula and oli. Ecologically, these snails graze fungus off of tree leaves to enhance photosynthesis.
Today there are 13/41 species of the Achatinella left. Under predation pressure from introduced species, these snails can no longer exist in their native habitat without enclosures. By using population genetics and habitat suitability modelling to combat inbreeding and climate change, my research aims to provide management with all possible areas where enclosures can last as habitat and maximize species diversity within each. These enclosures will not only benefit Achatinella snails, but other native snail species as well.
The research that I conduct for the Achatinella and their sub-family Achatinellinae are to perpetuate the survival of the endemic tree snails species. These tree snails are important in Hawaiian culture because they were often revered as the voice of the forest and subjects of both hula and oli. Ecologically, these snails graze fungus off of tree leaves to enhance photosynthesis.
Today there are 13/41 species of the Achatinella left. Under predation pressure from introduced species, these snails can no longer exist in their native habitat without enclosures. By using population genetics and habitat suitability modelling to combat inbreeding and climate change, my research aims to provide management with all possible areas where enclosures can last as habitat and maximize species diversity within each. These enclosures will not only benefit Achatinella snails, but other native snail species as well.