New data on the systematics and distribution of the oxychiline zonitid Mediterranea depressa (Sterki, 1880) in Italy (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Zonitidae)

Recent extensive field research has made it possible to improve definition of the distribution Of Mediterranea depressa in northern Italy. The species only occurs in the Alps:from Laghi di Fusine to Cadore in the eastern Alps and in two isolated localities in the western Alps. Apart from the apparent absence of thorns at tip of mid-penis papillae, Italian specimens have all the conchological and anatomical characters of the species. The genus Riedeliconcha established by Scinleyko (2003) to include this species is here regarded as a junior synonym of Mediterranea. In fact [lie type species of these genera share subterranean life-style small whilsth shell with very small umbilicus and many anatomical characters.