The Splendid Helix (Pseudotachea splendida) is a small, glossy land snail belonging to the family Helicidae.
Key Characteristics
• Shell Size: Measures about 15 to 25 mm in diameter and 8 to 14 mm in height.
• Shell Appearance: Flat or low-spired with 3.5 to 5 whorls, featuring a bright, glossy surface that is whitish or yellowish.
• Band Patterns: Most specimens feature 1 to 5 thin, dark brown-reddish or earthy bands, though unbanded forms also exist.
• Aperture: Oval and oblique with an inner lip that is white or pinkish; adult shells lack a visible umbilicus (navel).
Habitat & Distribution
• Native Range: Found in the western Mediterranean, including eastern Spain, southern France, and Mallorca.
• Preferred Environment: Lowland Mediterranean areas, limestone terrains, maquis shrublands, and dry woods.
• Conservation Status: Listed as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List with a stable population trend.
