Potamopyrgus doci facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Potamopyrgus doci |
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| Conservation status | |
 Nationally Critical (NZ TCS) |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Potamopyrgus
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| Species: |
doci
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| Synonyms | |
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The Potamopyrgus doci is a very special kind of freshwater snail. It's only found in New Zealand and is in big trouble because it's "critically endangered." This means there are very few of them left in the world.
Contents
About the Potamopyrgus doci Snail
This small snail lives in fresh water. It was first officially described in 2008 by a scientist named Martin Haase. Snails like this are part of a group called gastropods.
Where the Potamopyrgus doci Snail Lives
This tiny snail has a very specific home. It's only ever been found in one place: a spring right outside the Ruakuri Cave. This cave is located in the famous Waitomo Caves area, which is north west of Te Kuiti in New Zealand.
The snail's home is quite small, only a few square meters in size. Even though it's a small area, it is protected. However, there are still some worries. People enjoy rafting in the cave, and farming activities upstream could make the water less clean. Luckily, for now, the number of snails seems to be staying the same.
Why the Potamopyrgus doci Snail is Endangered
In 2013, the Department of Conservation in New Zealand looked at the Potamopyrgus doci snail. They decided it was "Nationally Critical." This is the highest threat level under the New Zealand Threat Classification System.
What "Nationally Critical" Means
The snail got this serious status because it lives in such a tiny area. Its total habitat is less than one hectare, which is about the size of a sports field. Also, it's only found in that single spot near Ruakuri Cave. Because it lives in such a small, unique place, it's very vulnerable to any changes or problems in its environment.
