Current status
This north European aquatic snail is currently known from only one site in the UK, near Oxford, although fresh shells have been discovered at a second site. The species has not been found recently at a number of formerly well-known sites.
The glutinous snail is regarded as Vulnerable throughout Europe and is recorded as Endangered in the GB Red List and globally threatened by the IUCN/WCMC. It is protected under Schedule 5 of the WCA 1981.
Current factors causing loss or decline
This snail occurs in clear, hard water which is free from fine sediment and nitrate/phosphate pollution. It shows a preference for firm substrates. Consequently, it is susceptible to a wide range of physical disturbance and pollutants.
Current action
The species is monitored at its remaining site, and a management plan has been written. The site is a proposed LNR. A recent survey of suitable nearby sites was carried out, but found no more colonies.
Action plan objectives and targets
Ensure the known remaining population is maintained.
Maintain any new populations found.
Proposed actions with lead agencies
Policy and legislation
No action proposed.
Site safeguard and management
Encourage good water quality in the catchment area of the remaining site. (ACTION: NRA)
Implement the management plan for the remaining site. (ACTION: NE)
Consider the need to notify the site as an SSSI. (ACTION: NE)
Species management and protection
No action proposed.
Advisory
Following suitable research on the ecology of this species, ensure the provision of advice on population and habitat management. (ACTION: NE)
Future Research and Monitoring
Undertake ecological studies, including a description of current and desired water quality and flow and the physical habitat. (ACTION: NE, NRA)
Survey all sites where the snail has been recorded this century by the year 2000. (ACTION: CCW, NE)
Encourage research on the ecology and distribution of this species with European partners and use the information and experience gained towards its conservation. (ACTION: NE, JNCC)
Continue monitoring existing population and seek to identify any further threats to the species. (ACTION: NE)
Pass information gathered during survey and monitoring of this species to JNCC or BRC so that it can be incorporated in national databases. (ACTION: NE)
Provide information annually to the World Conservation Monitoring Centre on the UK status of the species to contribute to maintenance of an up-to-date global red list . (ACTION: JNCC)
Survey of lakes in the vicinity of Llyn Tegid (Wales site) to see if other populations exist locally.
Assess risks to the population in Llyn Tegid (Wales site).
Undertake ecological studies to provide a description of the current and desired water quality and flow regime and the physical habitat required by the species in the Llyn Tegid site.
Communications and Publicity
No action proposed.
Links with other action plans
None given.
Local implementation
The following LBAPs are working on Myxas glutinosa:
Publication details
Originally published in: Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report - Volume II: Action Plans (December 1995, Tranche 1, Vol 2, p164)
Related links
ARKive Visit the ARKive website to view images and further information relating to this species
