Distribution profile and influence of edaphic factors on the diversity and abundance of terrestrial molluscs in the yapo classified forest, Côte d’Ivoire

Molluscs play an important role in the decomposition of organic matter in their environment. They are sometimes indicators of the health of their environment. Understanding their distribution profile and their link with certain soil parameters in their living environment is necessary for effective conservation policy. The aim of this study was to analyse the distribution profile of terrestrial molluscs and the correlation between them and certain edaphic parameters. To do this, sampling by direct and indirect observation using the quadrat method was used. Certain physical and chemical parameters of the soil were determined. The results revealed, in terms of trophic structure, a dominance of herbivorous molluscs (70%) over carnivores. The distribution profile of the taxa revealed that habitats without anthropogenic pressure were the richest in taxa, with 10 and 15 taxa respectively for enriched open habitats and natural closed habitats. The abundance of molluscs was positively influenced by litter thickness (R= 0.84) and soil calcium content (0.54). Taxonomic richness correlated positively with species richness (R=0.59). Although not significant, granules negatively influenced mollusc abundance. This study reveals the importance of preserving the mollusc habitat from anthropogenic disturbances in order to prevent their disappearance.