Freshwater snail distribution related to environmental factors in Banco National Park, an urban reserve in the Ivory Coast (West Africa)

Abstract

Freshwater snails and environmental variables were studied at seven stations along the Banco River (Ivory Coast;West Africa) from March to October 2008. Two species (Physa marmorata (Physidae) and Bulinus forskalii (Planorbidae) were recorded only at one sampling site. This station which received domestic sewage from the neighbouring cities was characterized by the highest conductivity and pH and the lowest values of dissolved oxygen. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that snail densities were probably influenced by conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, and canopy cover. Also, snail dynamics showed a seasonal pattern, with peak population densities and recruitment of young generations during rainy periods. This study highlighted the impacts of sewage on snail diversity and distribution in the Banco River. Overall, this paper strengthens the viewpoint that the Banco River management should be implemented to lessen the impact of anthropogenic activities on the ecology of the Banco National Park.

Key words: freshwater snails, dynamic, Banco River, Ivory Coast.