Austropeplea tomentosa

Austropeplea tomentosa, commonly known as the New Zealand fluke pond snail, is a species of air-breathing freshwater snail in the family Lymnaeidae.
The species was thought to be widely distributed across Australia and New Zealand. However, molecular research published in 2009 suggests that A. tomentosa is endemic to New Zealand, while Australian populations previously assigned to this species are distinct taxa, such as Austropeplea brazieri.

Ecology and Distribution

The species is found throughout the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It typically inhabits slow-moving or standing waters, including swamps, ponds, and the edges of streams. It is semi-amphibious and can often be found on damp mud or trailing aquatic vegetation near the water's surface.

Parasitology

A. tomentosa is a significant intermediate host for the liver fluke. Because it acts as a vector for this parasite, it has caused concern in agricultural areas where it can facilitate the infection of sheep and cattle.