Variability character of conchological features in the mollusc Gibbulinopsis signata (Mousson, 1873) (Gastropoda: Pupillidae) in Northwestern Uzbekistan

Abstract

Analysis of the results shows that mollusc of the species Gibbulinopsis signata (Mousson, 1873) from the northwestern region of Uzbekistan exhibits significant variability in conchological characteristics, including variability in shell size, shape, and colour, as well as variations in aperture shape and fittings. Among these characteristics, shell height is found to be the most variable and is recognised as an ecological and biological indicator of mollusc’s adaptability to habitat conditions. The results of molecular analysis, using the sequences of the gene 18S of ribosomal DNA showed that all three populations belonged to the same species.