S2:E8 Can a Snail Save an Entire Tropical Forest?

<p>The <em>Polymita Picta</em> is one incredible, beautiful snail you are gonna want to get to know!</p> <p>It is native to Cuba and does some incredible work in supporting the forest and the species within it. &nbsp;Sadly though, it's under serious threat. Their remarkable colored shells are a thing of wonder, but also enticing to poachers. &nbsp;Polymitas are being collected and killed for their shells, and when combined with habitat loss and invasive species, this is putting this critical species in danger of collapse. &nbsp;And with it, the Cuban rainforest.</p> <p>Joining us today is Norvis Hernandez, a biologist in Cuba and founder and forever leader of the Polymita Fan Club! She has dedicated her entire life to this little gastropod, and her story and work is inspiring. &nbsp;</p> <p>You can learn a lot more about the Polymitas as well in this <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/cuba-polymita-snails-most-beautiful-shells-endangered">great article from Nat Geo</a>.</p> <p>That's not all!</p> <p>Here at Animalia are making a big push to save this species. &nbsp;As part of that, we have launched a line of limited line of <a href="https://iloveanimalia.com/collections/deerdana-x-animalia-polymita-snails">Polymita themed hoodies and sweats</a> made of 100% recycled cotton. &nbsp;They are super soft and perfect for Spring or Fall. &nbsp;You will love them and you'll be supporting REALLY important work. &nbsp;With the restrictions in Cuba it is so hard for Norvis and her team to get the word out. &nbsp;<a href="https://iloveanimalia.com/collections/deerdana-x-animalia-polymita-snails">Get yours today</a> and as a podcast listener, get 15% off with the code 'POLYMITA'.<br> <br> Oh and that's not all! We made a full on Polymita music video too! &nbsp;You heard that right. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJwYIL9wQy8">Check it out on YouTube here</a>!</p>