The Rapid Expansion of the Jumping Snail Ovachlamys fulgens in Brazil

The exotic Japanese jumping snail, Ovachlamys fulgens, was first recorded in Santa Catarina state, Brazil, in 2013. Based on data gathered from the literature, natural history collections, field samplings, and the iNaturalist platform, we assess its current distribution in the country. Our data show that the jumping snail has had a dramatic range expansion since its introduction, reaching six other states from the southern region of the country toward the Midwest. The affected locations are mostly urban but also include three biological reserves and protected areas, and possibly more. We discuss the consequences of this rapid invasion, its means of introduction, its local ecology, and prospects for monitoring and control.

Automated summary

This article assesses the distribution of the exotic Japanese jumping snail in Brazil, showing that it has dramatically expanded its range since introduction, reaching other states in the country and affecting both urban areas and biological reserves.