Habitat

Gastrocopta procera are found in areas with acidic-clay soil on the western side of Wisconsin, northeast Maryland, western South Carolina, southern South Dakota, and Eastern Arizona (Nekola, J. C. (2003)).  They are commonly found on hill prairies and open sites on bluffs.  In Wisconsin, G. procera prefer open exposure areas that thaw in early spring.  The early thawing habitat gives the snail more time in a frost-free environment to grow, obtain nutrients, and reproduce (Wing Snaggletooth).  G. procera thrive in areas of thatch and under organic debris where it is easy to obtain nutrients essential for bodily functions.  The snails have very small habitats and can be found in an area of only a few square meters ((Gastrocopta procera) - WDNR).  

Map Locations in Wisconsin for Gastrocopta procera.

 

Rush Creek, WI
Photo by Thomas Meyer

Other organisms found in this habitat include the Lumbricus terrestris (earthworm), Labidomera clivicollis (swamp milkweed leaf beetle), and the Schistocerca americana (American bird grasshopper). G. procera takes part in resource partitioning with the other organisms so that there is little to no competition, helping the snail find its ideal niche within the environment (Grassland Animals).

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