Achatina fulica
Achatina fulica, commonly known as the Giant African Snail, is a species of large land snail that belongs to the family Achatinidae. It is native to East Africa but has become an invasive species in many parts of the world due to its adaptability and rapid reproduction.
Description[edit | edit source]
Achatina fulica is one of the largest terrestrial gastropods. Adult snails typically measure about 20 cm in length and 10 cm in diameter. The shell is conical and can vary in color, often displaying brown and cream bands. The body of the snail is soft and slimy, with a distinct head and tentacles.
Habitat and Distribution[edit | edit source]
Originally from East Africa, Achatina fulica has spread to many tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Asia, the Pacific, and the Americas. It thrives in warm, humid environments and is often found in gardens, agricultural fields, and urban areas.
Diet[edit | edit source]
Achatina fulica is a herbivore and feeds on a wide variety of plant materials. It is known to consume over 500 different types of plants, making it a significant agricultural pest. The snail's diet includes fruits, vegetables, flowers, and even bark.
Reproduction[edit | edit source]
Achatina fulica is a hermaphrodite, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs. They are capable of self-fertilization, although cross-fertilization is more common. A single snail can lay up to 1,200 eggs per year, contributing to its rapid population growth.
Impact as an Invasive Species[edit | edit source]
The introduction of Achatina fulica to non-native regions has led to significant ecological and economic impacts. The snail competes with native species for resources, damages crops, and can carry parasites harmful to humans, such as the rat lungworm, which causes eosinophilic meningitis.
Control Measures[edit | edit source]
Efforts to control Achatina fulica populations include manual collection, use of molluscicides, and introduction of natural predators. Public awareness and quarantine measures are also important in preventing the spread of this invasive species.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
