Relationship between soil physico-chemical parameters and the diversity of terrestrial gastropods in the Tizi-Ouzou region (northern Algeria)

The malacological biodiversity of the Tizi-Ouzou region was studied in two areas, Ait Bouaddou and Yakouren. Sampling was carried out on 100 m² sites across seven stations in the two areas. Three sampling methods were used in the field: sight hunting, trapping and litter sieving. A soil sample was taken at each site. The results revealed a richness of 27 snail and slug species, divided into 16 families and 23 genera. The results of the Pearson correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between species richness and the levels of Fine Sand (LF) and Coarse Sand (LG), and a negative correlation between species richness and coarse sand (SG). Soil physico-chemical parameters have a significant influence on the distribution and abundance of terrestrial gastropod species.