Agardhiella (gastropod)

Agardhiella is a genus of very small, air-breathing land snails, terrestrial pulmonate gastropod mollusks in the family Argnidae. These snails are typically found in subterranean habitats, such as caves and soil, and are characterized by their elongated shells.

Agardhiella snails are generally endemic to southeastern Europe, particularly the Balkan Peninsula. Their distribution is often highly localized, with many species being restricted to specific caves or small geographic areas. This limited range and dependence on specific microhabitats makes them vulnerable to habitat loss and other environmental threats.

The shells of Agardhiella species are usually smooth, glossy, and translucent or whitish in color. They are typically sinistral, meaning the shell coils to the left when viewed apex upward. The small size of these snails and their subterranean lifestyle make them difficult to study, and the taxonomy of the genus can be complex.

Research into Agardhiella species often focuses on their biogeography, phylogeny, and adaptations to cave environments. The snails play a role in the subterranean ecosystem, contributing to decomposition and nutrient cycling.