Researchers from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation have discovered a new snail species, Lagocheilus hayaomiyazakii sp. nov., in the semi-evergreen Tilari forest of Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. The species, commonly called the Tilari Hairy Snail, has been named in honour of Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, celebrated for his nature-inspired films.
Published in the Journal of Conchology on October 14, 2025, the study marks the first record of the Lagocheilus genus in the northern Western Ghats — extending its known range 540 km northwards. The snail thrives in moist, leafy, and rocky areas of the Tilari forest, contributing to nutrient cycling and soil health.
Researchers warn that the species’ limited habitat faces threats from deforestation and wildfires, urging immediate conservation measures to protect this fragile ecosystem. The discovery underscores the rich yet vulnerable biodiversity of the Western Ghats and highlights the need for further research on lesser-known species.
