RETURN
As part of conservation efforts for the lesser ramshorn snail (Anisus vorticulus), one of the rarest freshwater snail species in Poland and Europe, the first reintroduction of this species into a newly created pond within Kampinos National Park has been successfully carried out.
In early August, under permits issued by the Regional Directorate for Environmental Protection (RDOŚ), 50 individuals of Anisus vorticulus were collected from a natural population in the Nadburzański Landscape Park. The following day, 20 individuals were released into the largest of the newly created ponds located near Famułki. The remaining specimens are being temporarily maintained in ex situ breeding facilities in accordance with permits granted by the Ministry of Climate and Environment and RDOŚ.
Over the coming months, all individuals currently held in captivity will also be introduced into the same pond. A decision was made to concentrate the entire founder population at a single site. This approach reduces the risk of losing parts of the small initial population and helps preserve as much genetic diversity as possible. Only after the species has successfully established itself and started reproducing at the new site will it be considered for translocation to additional suitable locations.
These activities represent an important step towards strengthening the national population of Anisus vorticulus and improving the long-term prospects of this valuable species in the Mazovia region.
