Discovery of New Snail Species in Montenegro

Scientists and citizen volunteers discovered two new snail species, named Cochlostoma komarnica and Cochlostoma dobrido, in the mountainous regions of northwestern Montenegro on July 27, 2026. Formally described in the open-access Biodiversity Data Journal, these cone-shaped land snails measure about 6 mm long, live on limestone rocks, feed on algae and lichens, and feature unique biological traits such as eyes on the sides of their heads and a tail disk acting like a door. The author highlights how collaborative fieldwork involving Taxon Expeditions, the Taxon Foundation, and the Montenegrin Ecologists Society successfully uncovered hidden biodiversity in Europe. The discovery emphasizes that even well-studied European regions still harbor unknown species waiting to be documented through integrated citizen science and genetic analysis. The overarching message addresses urgent conservation concerns, particularly regarding the proposed hydropower dam and reservoir project slated to flood the Komarnica Canyon. Conservationists argue that this development threatens to destroy irreplaceable ecosystems and eliminate species unknown to science before they can be thoroughly studied. Researchers and local environmental groups strongly advocate for abandoning the hydropower project and expanding the Durmitor World Heritage Site to officially protect the Komarnica Canyon. The findings serve as a powerful scientific argument that green energy initiatives must not compromise unique and fragile natural habitats.