Common names: Giant African
snail, giant African land snail
Note: A. fulica was recently redesignated Lissachatina
fulica, largely
on the basis of Mead's (1961) observations (Naggs,
2002). See Invasive Species Compedium - Lissachatina fulicafor
more information.
Florida
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Identifies Giant African Land Snails in Miami-Dade
County (Sep 15, 2011) Florida Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has positively
identified a population of Giant
African land snails (GALS) in Miami-Dade County. The Giant African land snail
is one of the most damaging snails in the world because they consume at least
500 different types of plants, can cause structural damage to plaster and stucco,
and can carry a parasitic nematode that can lead to meningitis in humans. Anyone
who believes they may have seen a Giant African land snail or signs of its presence
should call FDACS toll-free at 888-397-1517 to make arrangements to have the
snail collected.
Native To: Africa
Date of U.S. Introduction: 1966 (first established population)
Means of Introduction: Imported as pets and for educational purposes; may also arrive accidentally in cargo
Impact: Damages native plants
and crops. Scientists consider the giant African
snail, Achatina fulica, to be one of the most damaging snails
in the world. It is known to eat at least 500 different types of
plants
Hawaii (currently, there are no established populations within
the continental U.S., but they may still be found
in pet stores and classrooms)
Federally Regulated: Snails in the genus Achatina (e.g.,Achatina
fulica, the Giant African Snail), are specifically prohibited
for both interstate movement and importation into
the U.S. This snail species group
is not only strictly prohibited from entering
the U.S. but is safeguarded when discovered. (USDA, APHIS - Regulated
Organism and Soil Permits: Snails and Slugs)
Giant African Land Snail University of Florida. Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.
Identification/Description; Photographs; Introduction History; Impacts; Life Cycle; Habitat; Controls
