Diversity of invertebrates in the coastal forests of Eastern Africa
Ngongolo, K. (2026). Diversity of invertebrates in the coastal forests of Eastern Africa, in: Pullaiah, T. et al. Biodiversity hotspot of the coastal forests of Eastern Africa. pp. [1-17]
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| Abstract |
The chapter delves into the intricate and often underappreciated world of invertebrate life thriving within the diverse ecosystems of Eastern African coastal forests. Based on an extensive literature review, this chapter delves into the extensive variety of invertebrates found in these essential habitats. Spanning from mangroves to tropical rainforests, these coastal forests harbor a plethora of invertebrate taxa, including insects, arachnids, mollusks, and crustaceans. It was noted that the species of freshwater snail in coastal forests in East Africa are about 290, of which 6.2% (n = 18) were identified in Kenya, including Gonaxis quadrilateralis, Gulella vicina vicina, Trochonanina mozambicensis, Thapsia curvatula, Trochonanina shimbiensis, Pseudoglessula boivini, Achatina fulica rodatzi, Rhachidina braunsi, and Maizania hildebrandtii. In Tanzania, a total of 161 species of invertebrates, comprising 86 species of Mollusca and 75 species of butterflies, are considered endemic in the coastal forest. However, the chapter also underscores the imminent threats facing invertebrates and their habitats, including agriculture, charcoal making, and firewood harvesting. Synthesizing a wealth of information, the chapter emphasizes the urgent need for holistic conservation strategies that prioritize the preservation of both invertebrate species and their unique habitats. |
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