Synopsis of the Egyptian freshwater snail fauna

Abstract

Egypt harbours many species of freshwater snails that transmit parasites causing serious diseases in humans and animals. Due to their significance, it is important to update the faunal list regularly. Our objective was to present such an update. The twenty eight species known to exist in the country are reviewed, including their synonymy, type localities, diagnostic features and parasitological importance; the shell morphology is illustrated. Besides, snail species thought to be extinct in the country are noted. This review can be used as a field guide for identification of the various species of snails colonising freshwater habitats in Egypt.