The Global Decline of Nonmarine Mollusks

TLDR

Invertebrates make up over 99 % of animal diversity yet receive limited research attention, and nonmarine mollusks—diverse terrestrial and freshwater bivalves and gastropods—are among the most imperiled animal groups yet remain largely overlooked. The article surveys global nonmarine molluscan biodiversity and conservation status, presents case studies of their decline, and discusses how malacologists and mollusks can contribute to conservation, research, and outreach. The authors compile a global review of nonmarine mollusk diversity and status, incorporating multiple case studies to illustrate their decline.

Abstract

Invertebrate species represent more than 99% of animal diversity; however, they receive much less publicity and attract disproportionately minor research effort relative to vertebrates. Nonmarine mollusks (i.e., terrestrial and freshwater) are one of the most diverse and imperiled groups of animals, although not many people other than a few specialists who study the group seem to be aware of their plight. Nonmarine mollusks include a number of phylogenetically disparate lineages and species-rich assemblages that represent two molluscan classes, Bivalvia (clams and mussels) and Gastropoda (snails, slugs, and limpets). In this article we provide an overview of global nonmarine molluscan biodiversity and conservation status, including several case studies documenting the diversity and global decline of nonmarine mollusks. We conclude with a discussion of the roles that mollusks and malacologists should play in conservation, including research, conservation management strategies, and education and outreach.