Digital Archives of Taiwan Malacofauna Database

Study Extent

Different ecological environments in Taiwan such as land, rivers, lakes, forests, mountains, shore-side and coastal seawaters.

Sampling

Samples were collected at least once a month. Based on the latest aerial images, sampling locations in various geographical landscapes were selected. Shells were divided into 4 groups according to their habitats, and as many different species of shells as possible in each group were collected and brought back to the lab to identify. The same species which had been collected before, but at different locality or month, were collected again to avoid misidentifying similar species. Also, the growth condition or age distribution of the same species in different months can be studied. In addition to sampling, a comprehensive survey of a location was conducted with the help of digital imaging system and GIS (Geographic Information System). The dry shells of the specimens were stored at room temperature and the soft tissues were preserved in 95% alcohol so that they can be used for future studies of genetic diversity. Shells were divided into: (1) sea shellfish－coastal, offshore and benthic shellfish. (2) instream and estuary shellfish－freshwater shellfish. (3) terrestrial shell－land snails. (4) alpine lake shellfish－Sphaeridae and Pisidiidae clams.

Method steps

1. 1. Survey environment, determine sampling locality. 2. Carry tools such as GPS (Global Positioning System) to collect specimens. 3. Clean, sort and identify specimens. 4. Take photos of selected specimens. 5. Enter the scientific name, GIS distribution data, habitat, collection date, abundance, photos and other basic information into the computer. Search for relevant literature and enter into database the shell species which has already been recorded in the same area.

General taxonomic coverage description: Mollusca

1. Mollusca
   rank: phylum

Main Taiwan island, Penghu, Orchid Island, Green Island, Kinmen and Matsu