Snails with a thicker, shorter and broader shell emerged. This new shell shape had not previously existed. The findings may give pause to scientists who plan conservation efforts for endangered species. Many conservation plans for endangered animals include relocating the endangered species away from urban development. However, Hellberg said such a technique could result in evolution of the species, which would, technically, result in the loss of that species as we knew it.
Many conservationists believe that as long as a species can be relocated, it can be saved.
But this study shows that the moved species may not continue on unchanged. The fact that it was moved can cause it to change and it won't be the same after all. Even more interesting is the fact that although the new snails in the northern part of California had a completely new and different look, they were genetically very similar to their relatives in the southern part of the state. Hellberg pointed out that scientists often use genetic testing to evaluate different species to determine whether they are near extinction or are surviving after being relocated. But the fact that all members of California's Acanthinucela spirata species were genetically similar even though some looked quite different casts doubt on whether genetic testing alone is the best method.