Poiretia mingrelica

The Caucasus region harbours a very rich fauna of terrestrial snails (more than 500 species). Many of them (from different sources 25-75%) are endemic to this area. The Caucasian snail fauna has not been evaluated for a long time (since the 1970s). The purpose of this project is to evaluate snail faunas in Georgian Transcaucasia and to map the distribution of endemic snails. In particular we plan:

Helix endem.

(1) To treat available scientific literature to extract all useful information on taxonomy of endemic molluscs and their distribution along forested area in Georgia.

(2) Working on mollusc collections deposited in National Museum of Georgia and the Institute of Zoology of Ilia State University to gain unpublished data of snails distribution.

(3) To work extensively on the field for collecting samples from forested area (The scope of collection field samples is to check of validation of already known distribution sites for endemic molluscs (a) and survey of previously unknown forest habitats (b).

(4) To work with stakeholders and preparing a short course for students, which includes importance of forest molluscs and their role in ecosystem functioning (a) and introduce field survey.

The key outcomes are the following:

1. We will gain extremely valuable information of the distribution and taxonomic composition of endemic molluscs for Georgian forest. Based on this data, it will be possible to plan next steps in conservation and research activities.

2. We will make databases which will be supported by authenticated specimens, tissue bank and image collections.

3. Together with target species, other species will be sampled from forest localities. This material will be deposited in the Ilia State University and will be used for research expansion.

4. Based on research results it will be possible to work with Georgian Red List commission, Georgian agency of protected areas, international mollusc specialist group (IUCN) and nongovernmental organizations for future conservation of Georgian snails.

5. During the project implementation we will train students in malacology which is extremely important in conservation of molluscs.