New Micro-Snail Species Discovered in Cambodian Karst Region

A new species of micro-snail, *Clostophis udayaditinus*, has been identified in the karst (limestone formation) region of Phnom Banan [pʰnum banan] in Battambang, Cambodia. The species is named in honor of King Udayadityavarman II [udayaditivarman] (1050-1066), the Angkor ruler who constructed the Phnom Banan Temple. The discovery, made by Fauna & Flora Cambodia in 2024, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and specialists from Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, and Khon Kaen University, marks the first record of the *Clostophis* genus in Cambodia. The research was supported by the EU through the 'Bcoming project'. Prior to this, 13 species from five genera of terrestrial snails had been recorded in Cambodian karsts, but no *Clostophis* species had been documented. *Clostophis udayaditinus* is now the 20th *Clostophis* species recorded globally. Karsts in Cambodia are known for their isolated nature and high levels of endemic species. The Ministry of Environment emphasizes the discovery's value for scientific research into Cambodia's natural resources and biodiversity.