Springsnail ecology and captive propagation

Authors: David L. Rogowski

Year: 2012 (xliv)

Abstract

Springsnails are often endemic to a single spring and the management and conservation of the springsnails has been typically limited to protecting habitats. Spring systems are primarily threatened from habitat loss (e.g. declining water flows resulting from groundwater extraction) and invasive species. Catastrophic events such as a fire, pollution, or even the introduction of an invasive species can extirpate or exterminate a species. In view of these potential threats and vulnerability of springsnails, propagation and the maintenance of captive populations would significantly increase the security of these vulnerable species. For the majority of springsnails little to nothing is known of their ecology or life history. Successful propagation and maintenance of captive populations of springsnails has been difficult. Simply placing a species in a lighted, filtered, and temperature regulated aquarium is rarely sufficient to ensure success. Replicating spring systems in the laboratory is a challenge and laboratory preferences of springsnails do not always follow field observations. Some species prefer warmer temperatures than are present in the field, and show no preference in depth contrary to field observations. Here I present an overview of our experiences in trying to maintain viable captive populations of a variety springsnails.

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