Pest slugs and snails, biology and control.
... The tropical invaders thrive in all habitats, but in the elevated areas while the introduced European gastropod species found almost restricted to the central highlands where the environmental conditions are ideal for the survival of those animals (Mordan et al., 2003). Deroceras reticulatum, a serious pest found in European countries posing damages to gardens, fields and greenhouses (Godan, 1983) were observed thriving in central highlands, particularly in Nuwara Eliya where there is high relative humidity and moderate to mild temperatures which support the survival and growth of the animal. This species is especially destructive to seedlings and succulent plants. ...
... This species is especially destructive to seedlings and succulent plants. Milax gagates, a serious pest in many European countries and probably widespread in United States, occurring in Eastern North America (Godan, 1983) were also observed during the survey in Nuwara ...
... Bradybaena similaris is widespread in the tropics, including Malaysia (Godan, 1983 Lissachatina fulica is the best known and probably the most widely introduced and distributed invasive pest species in the world (Estebenet et al., 2006). They have become serious pests throughout most parts of the country causing damages to crops such as cabbage, lettuce, cauliflower, radish and many other. ...
Terrestrial snails and slugs (Class Gastropoda) are a diverse group of mollusks found in diverse habitats. Some of the terrestrial snails and slugs are serious pests of agriculture and horticulture in many countries of the world. Often these pests are exotic, invasive species introduced through trade and commerce. They spread rapidly causing severe damage to crops resulting in heavy economic losses. These pest species also have the potential to displace native snails and slugs in these altered environments as well as invade natural habitats.
Sri Lanka is home to 253 species of terrestrial gastropods out of which 81% are endemic to the country. An island wide survey conducted from 1999 to 2002 also highlighted the presence of 18 species of exotic snails and slugs in the country. Most of these exotic species were identified as pests of agricultural crops in Nuwara Eliya, Badulla, Matale and Kandy districts. Since this survey, no studies on pest gastropods have been carried out in the country. Hence, a study was carried out in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya districts in approximately 149,734 m2 of agricultural land from January to October 2017 to determine the current status of these gastropods in these areas. The distribution and density of pest gastropods were assessed in relation to three environmental variables: elevation, temperature and relative humidity using a canonical correspondence analysis (CCA).
During the study, a total of 14 terrestrial gastropods were identified of which 8 gastropod species were recognized as pests of agriculture crops. They were Laevicaulis altae, Mariaella dussumieri, Deroceras reticulatum, Milax gagates, Lissachatina fulica, Bradybaena similaris, Allopeas gracile and Subulina octona. Among these, Lissachatina fulica is also listed as an Invasive Alien Species (IAS) in Sri Lanka. In addition to these pest species, four endemic species, namely, Cryptozona chenui, Euplecta emilina, E. hyphasma and Satiella sp. Two non-endemic species, C. bistrialis and Eurychlamys vilipensa were also observed associated with agricultural fields. However, even though some of these species were highly dense there were no direct observations of these species causing damage to crop plants. The study indicated that the number of pest gastropod species occurrences in agricultural lands has increased during the past fifteen years. Some species have increased their distribution range. The elevation was the most significant factor in determining the gastropod species variation in different sites.
The damages due to pest gastropods were prominent in cash crops and irrespective of the crop type the seedling or nursery stage was the most preferred and hence most vulnerable. Farmers
used physical methods such as manual removal of snails and chemical methods such as application of Metaldehyde, common salt, quick lime and urea. Yet due mainly to the ineffective usage of these chemical, it has failed in controlling pest gastropods effectively. Thus, regular monitoring and effective control measures are necessary to minimize the adverse effects of these pest gastropods.
... Some of these slugs were also responsible for causing public nuisance in both urban and suburban areas. In the countries like India, China, Fiji, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, the tropical leather leaf or lined leatherback slug, L. alte was found to cause heavy damage in lettuce, spinach, coriander, tobacco etc. [15,16] . In different parts of Central America, Caribbean leather leaf slug or bean slug, S. plebeia has been considered as menace due to its wide host range, primarily in bean crop. ...
... The second important family "Ariophantidae" includes a yellow-shelled semi-slug, Parmarion martensias, a problematic gastropods in the countries like Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan and Hawaii. It was recognized as a destructive pest of several orchids, other commercial flowers, vegetables, legume crops [16,22,23] and plays important role in the transmission of Angiostrongylus cantonensis, a parasitic pathogen that causes rat lungworm disease in human [24] . Ratnadvipia irradians, another semi-slug species has been reported as endemic to Sri Lanka and found abundantly near the canopies of arecanut, mango and Ceylon breadfruits trees of homestead gardens and also in some rain forests [25] . ...
... However, possible impact of soil factors upon this gastropod pest cannot be denied. Generally, crops grown in relatively heavy soil are more vulnerable to slug damage because this type of soil enhances survival and growth of different slug species [16,44] . In case of no or reduced tillage system slug is a common problem. ...
Most of the terrestrial slugs are potential threat to agriculture across the globe. Their highly adaptive nature helps them to survive in both temperate and tropical climates which is one of the major reasons of its abundant species diversity. It is not only a severe problem in different seedlings of nursery and orchards, also a worry factor for the seeds of legumes sown in furrows. The whitish slimy mucus generated by this pest makes the flower and vegetables unfit for sale. However, despite of its euryphagic nature, very few works have been carried out on slug morphology, biology, ecology, taxonomy and its management in India. This review article tries to integrate the information of economically important slug species of the world as well as India, their bio-ecology, nature of damage, favorable factors with special emphasis on eco-friendly management tactics of this particular gastropod pest.
... Out of many gastropods, only a relatively small number are recognized as agricultural pests, i.e., those species that interfere with the production and utilization of crops and livestock, leading to economic losses (Godan 1983;Kozłowski 2012). Often these are exotic species that are inadvertently introduced into new environments. ...
... Given such opportunities, these species can spread rapidly and even become invasive (Kozłowski and Kozłowski 2011;Wiktor 2001). Pest gastropods cause significant economic damage to crops in many countries (Baker 2002;Bishop 1977;Carlos Villalobos et al. 1995;Godan 1983;Kozłowski and Kozłowski 2011;Mc Donnell et al. 2009). In addition, these pests lower the quality of the crops by soiling them with slime and feces and can transmit pathogens or their eggs to plants, humans and livestock (Kozłowski 2012). ...
... The accidental introduction of species worldwide has resulted in significant alterations to native ecological communities and has contributed to the decline or extinction of numerous native species. Exotic pest gastropods, in particular, have been unintentionally introduced to numerous countries, posing a significant threat to agricultural lands by causing extensive damage to crops including cereals, fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants (Baker 2002;Borkakati et al. 2009;Cowie et al. 2009;Godan 1983;Kozłowski and Kozłowski 2011;Maheshini et al. 2019). Hence, for the effective control these pests and prevent their further spread, it is crucial to gather information on their distribution, composition, and environmental preferences, underscoring the importance of the present study. ...
Background: The available information on terrestrial pest gastropods and their impact on the environment worldwide is scarce and outdated. The present study aimed to address this gap by conducting the first comprehensive survey of pest gastropods in the Nuwara Eliya District, an important vegetable growing area in the highlands of Sri Lanka. Eighty agricultural lands were surveyed over two years by establishing ten 1 m2 sampling plots per crop type in each agricultural land. Geo-coordinates, air temperature, elevation, relative humidity, daily rainfall, soil pH, species richness and abundance were recorded for rainy and non-rainy periods. The relationship between species composition and environmental variables was analyzed using multi-regression models and distribution maps.
Results: Out of the 14 species recorded in agricultural lands, nine were identified as exotic pest species. Species abundance (t = 4.69, p < 0.05) and diversity was higher in the rainy period and the dominant species during this period were Bradybaena similaris (t = 2.69, p < 0.05) and Deroceras reticulatum (t = 2. 46, p < 0.05). Eggs and estivating adults were found in soil and under decaying organic matter during the non-rainy period. The exotic species showed broader preferences for the measured environmental factors and showed a wider range in distribution compared to the native species. Variation in pest gastropod composition was significantly accounted for by elevation, relative humidity, soil pH and daily rainfall. Additionally, the species richness and abundance varied across locations due to the combined effects of elevation, crop type and stage, and field type.
Conclusions: The study emphasizes the importance of understanding the biology and ecology of gastropod pests to develop effective management strategies. By considering the influence of environmental factors and implementing appropriate soil management techniques, such as targeting specific habitats and crop stages, it is possible to mitigate pest populations and minimize their impact on agricultural lands. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights into the dynamics and interactions of terrestrial gastropods in agricultural ecosystems, supporting sustainable pest management practices.
... They make an important contribution to decomposition, the nutrient cycle and soil formation (Meyer et al. 2013). Some also feed additionally or exclusively on living plant tissues (Godan 1983;Barker 2002). Others are facultative or obligate carnivores (Barker and Efford 2004). ...
... The different functional groups can pose different concerns if they are intentionally or unintentionally introduced into regions beyond their native ranges. Whereas the detritivores are of least concern, the herbivores may become agricultural and horticultural pests (Godan 1983;Barker 2002). Carnivorous land snails have been intentionally introduced in various regions as biological control agents for herbivorous snails. ...
... None of them is known to cause ecological damage or to be a pest in the field. Zonitoides arboreus is reportedly a pest of potted ornamental plants, which it damages especially by feeding on the roots (Godan 1983;Hollingsworth and Armstrong 2003). In the same way, it may cause root rot of sugar cane (Rands 1924). ...
Established alien land snail species that were introduced into the Western Palaearctic Region from other regions and their spread in the Western Palaearctic are reviewed. Thirteen of the 22 species came from North America, three from Sub-Saharan Africa, two from the Australian region, three probably from the Oriental Region and one from South America. The establishment of outdoor populations of these species was usually first seen at the western or southern rims of the Western Palearctic. Within Europe, the alien species usually spread from south to north and from west to east. The latitudinal ranges of the alien species significantly increased with increasing time since the first record of introduction to the Western Palearctic. The latitudinal mid-points of the Western Palaearctic and native ranges of the species are significantly correlated when one outlier is omitted. There is a general trend of poleward shifts of the ranges of the species in the Western Palaearctic compared to their native ranges. There are three reasons for these shifts: (1) the northward expansion of some species in Western Europe facilitated by the oceanic climate, (2) the impediment to the colonisation of southern latitudes in the Western Palaearctic due to their aridity and (3) the establishment of tropical species in the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Most of the species are small, not carnivorous and unlikely to cause serious ecological or economic damage. In contrast, the recently introduced large veronicellid slugs from Sub-Saharan Africa and the giant African snail Lissachatina fulica could cause economic damage in irrigated agricultural areas or greenhouses in the Mediterranean and the Middle East.
... are considered a hitchhiker pest as having been found in ships, vehicles, and containers. They are intercepted in cars, postal packages, soils, cargos (Godan, 1983) and can be easily transported with plants, building materials, and household goods. ...
... The harmful effects of the species can be best monitored by a combination of cultural and chemical control. Their natural predators are carnivorous beetles (Godan, 1983;Morrondo et al., 2005). C. acuta is an intermediate host of both Müllerius capillaris (Müller) and Cystocaulus ocreatus Davtian, lungworms of sheep (Godan, 1983). ...
... Their natural predators are carnivorous beetles (Godan, 1983;Morrondo et al., 2005). C. acuta is an intermediate host of both Müllerius capillaris (Müller) and Cystocaulus ocreatus Davtian, lungworms of sheep (Godan, 1983). C. barbara can act as an intermediate host for Protostrongylus rufescens (sheep lungworm) (Herbert, 2010). ...
The objective of the present study is to inform the last distribution of the invasive and harmful species Cochlicella barbara (Linnaeus, 1758) in Turkey, as well as to draw attention to the possible danger of this distribution on regional vegetation, agriculture, and parasitism. C. barbara was found for the first time in south-eastern of Anatolia in April 2019 in the campus area of the Dicle University in Diyarbakır, Turkey. C. barbara is admitted as a harmful organism
and classified as an agricultural pest in most of the countries. Species in this genus have been intercepted in postal packages, soil, and cargo as well as can be easily transported with plants, building materials, household goods, etc. Above all, it is an intermediate host of nematode and fluke parasites of livestock. Knowing the distribution of this species will not only contribute to the registration of a new species in the list of gastropods of the region but also
facilitate the control of the species across Turkey.
... Damage caused by snails is due mainly to feeding and to contamination with their bodies, feces or slime, leading to deterioration of the product quality besides, and financial losses (Glesias et al., 2003). The importance of land snails as pest organisms has drastically increased in the past few decades (Godan, 1983 andGathwaite et al., 1996). Land snails are widespread pests that infested greenhouses and field crops all over the world. ...
... Rearing and maintenance of snails: The tested snails, eggs, immature and adult of Eobania vermiculata and Helicella vestallis were collected from infested horticulture, vegetables and field crops at Ashmoon district, Menufiya governorate. The snails transferred in closed bags to the laboratory and were kept separately (each stage of each species) under laboratory conditions (20°±2C°and 65%±5 R.H) in glassy terrariums (40×25×20cm) container the humitidy reach (75± 5%) with moist clay and sand soil (1:1) of about 8: 12 cm from its hight soil was moisted with top water to allow with fresh green lettuce leaves for two weeks for acclimatization before testing (Godan, 1983). The terrariums were closed with black muslin cloth secured with rubber band to avoid snail escaping (Baker and Hawake, 1991). ...
... The recorded results in tables (1 & 2) Godan (1983) and Andrew (2009) recorded that, carbendazim cause fetotoxic and teratogenic effects in laboratory animals following bolus oral dosing. Also, Mahmoud, (2002) found that, diflubenzuron compound caused teratogenic effect of different ages of land slug, Limax flavus. ...
... The results obtained from the use of pesticides agree with those reported by many authors. Godan (1983) showed that using herbicides not only kill weeds but also mollusks either through the animal skin or by ingestion through the intestine. Population density of terrestrial snails is obviously increased during spring months as compared to low or moderate values during winter and autumn months (Ghamry et al., 1993;Nakhla et al., 2002;Abo Bakr, 2011). ...
... When discussing the results of hand collection, it is worthy to mention that hand collection methods have been recommended by several authors (Wouters, 1970;Godan, 1983;Shah, 1992;Tillier et al., 1995 Moran, S., Y. Gotlib and B. Yaakov (2004). ...
... Generally, the damaging effects of these pests is far greater today than in former times, since limits for their dispersal have not existed as a result of denser and faster transport and traffic. Also, large snail populations can be built up mainly because parasites and predators which occurred in their original area do not exist in the newly established area (Godan, 1983). Moreover, land snails are capable of spreading to new areas due to their ability to tolerate unfavorable climatic factors such as high temperatures and dry conditions, which considered the main climatic factors that influence their activity and occurrence. ...
... Whereas, samples of fruit trees were collected by the same manner except snails were counted in 25 X 25 cm 2 on the soil and on one meter of the tree trunk near soil. Snails found on plants or on the soil surface in the quadrate were counted and transferred in tightly closed polyethylene bags to the laboratory for identification using a key given by Godan (1983) and Ali and Ramdane (2020). ...
Results of a survey carried out on land gastropods infesting major field, vegetable and fruit crops in 12 villages (localities) representing four districts (counties) of Dakahlia governorate through the seasonal activity period of gastropod species during two successive growing seasons 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 revealed the occurrence of three land snail species and one slug species belonging to order: Stylommatophora. The snail species were, the glassy clover snail Monacha cartusiana (Muller) family: Hygromiidae, the brown garden (chocolate-band) snail Eobania vermiculata (Muller) family: Helicidae and the succineid snail Succinea sp., family: Succineidae, while the slug species was Deroceras sp., family: Agriolimacidae. The identified species varied in their incidence according to host plant, locality and season. In this respect, M. cartusiana snail has the upper hand, since it was detected in most of all surveyed localities infesting the majority of examined crops. It was more abundant on field and vegetable crops compared to fruit trees. E. vermiculata was found on all examined fruit crops. It was not detected on any of the studied field or vegetable crops at all surveyed localities. On contrary, the succineid snail Succinea sp. was found on field and vegetable only, it was not observed infesting fruit crops. On the other hand, the slug Deroceras sp. was found in certain localities infesting all examined crops except wheat, broad bean and potato. Population density of M. curtusiana differed from host plant to another and from locality to another. Among field and vegetable crops, Egyptian clover and lettuce gained the highest values while wheat and potato showed the lowest ones. Since, the highest number of this snail on Egyptian clover and lettuce were counted in Borg El-Nour village (Aga district) and Batra village (Talkha district) during 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 seasons with values 29.9, 25.6 (21.1, 19.5) and 27.7, 23.2 (24.4, 22.5) snails per 50 x 50cm 2 , respectively. Whereas, other identified gastropod species were found with relatively lower occurrence and population density on the infested crops. The seasonal population behavior of the predominant species, M. cartusiana was monitored on Egyptian clover and wheat during two successive seasons (2019/2020 and 2020/2021). It was found that population density increased during spring months as compared to low or moderate values during autumn and winter months.
... In terrestrial gastropods, large scale dispersal can only be accomplished passively and human activities play an important role in transporting species (Godan 1983;Robinson 1999). In North America, passive dispersal of Arion spp. ...
... Barua et al. 2021). Numerous European slug species, including several Arion spp., are already major agricultural pest in North America (Godan 1983;Hammond and Byers 2002;Grimm et al. 2009). ...
Early detection of exotic species and rapid dissemination of information are both essential for risk assessments and preventive measures to be implemented early. In this context, we report the first mention of Arion vulgaris in Quebec (Canada). This species is considered as the most important slug pest in Europe and is of particular concern in North America where its presence has rarely been documented. Identifications were based both on a 16S rDNA gene segment and on genital morphology. Our results confirmed the northernmost successful introduction of A. vulgaris in North America. This new record emphasizes the need to acquire more data on the invasion of this species in North America.
... The slug, Mariaella dussumieri (L. Pfeiffer, 1855) (Gastropoda: Ariophantidae) is considered to be endemic to the Western Ghats, India (Raheem et al. 2014), but introduced to Malaysia, Singapore (Godan 1983;Hoong 1995;Maassen 2001) and Sri Lanka (Maheshini et al. 2019). Although M. dussumieri was intercepted in the USA (Godan 1983), there is no evidence of its occurrence therein at present (Cowie et al. 2009). ...
... Pfeiffer, 1855) (Gastropoda: Ariophantidae) is considered to be endemic to the Western Ghats, India (Raheem et al. 2014), but introduced to Malaysia, Singapore (Godan 1983;Hoong 1995;Maassen 2001) and Sri Lanka (Maheshini et al. 2019). Although M. dussumieri was intercepted in the USA (Godan 1983), there is no evidence of its occurrence therein at present (Cowie et al. 2009). Being a voracious feeder, M. dussumieri is considered to be a pest of commercial plants as it impairs the quality and market value of crops, partly because of its excreta and mucus secretion (Tandon et al. 1975;Das et al. 2020). ...
Abstract. The life history features of the pestiferous slug Mariaella dussumieri (L. Pfeiffer, 1855)(Gastropoda: Ariophantidae) were studied in the laboratory. The growth and reproduction of M. dussumieri were studied using multiple cohorts of juveniles hatching from the eggs of field-collected and laboratory-reared individuals. About 18 out of 215 hatchlings survived to sexual maturity with a maximum life span of 401 days. The growth pattern was assessed for compliance with the von Bertalanffy growth equation for body weight, expressed as BWt = 9*(1-exp-0.09(t-0.11)). At the juvenile stage, mortality of the studied slugs was high and growth was rapid. However, when the individuals attained sexual maturity, growth slowed down and mortality decreased. The post-oviposition period was very short, indicating semelparity. The characteristic life history features exhibited by M. dussumieri reflected its adaptation as a pestiferous slug.
... These are important pollution indicators as their faecal pellets contain high concentration of heavy metals that is helpful in determining the degree of pollution in rivers, lakes and other land areas. They are also biological indicators of radioactive pollution (Godan, 1983). Both snails and slugs are commonly known as agricultural pests. ...
... Both snails and slugs are commonly known as agricultural pests. These are also used in scientific research processes especially in relation to immunological haematology studies, while their shells are used as a model for the study of process of bones calcification (Godan, 1983). Buddha Nullah is a seasonal water stream thatruns all the way through the Malwa region of Punjab. ...
The present study was conducted to study of snail and slug population dynamics in relation to
edaphic factors in plant nurseries near Buddha Nullah, Ludhiana (Punjab), India., In the survey of
four ornamental plant nurseries viz., Prabhakar, Tulsigaurd, Laxmi plant nurseries near Buddha
nullah, Ludhiana and one reference site Punjab Agricultural University nursery, Ludhiana revealed
the presence of only one species of both snails and slugs viz., Macrochlamys indica and Filicaulis
alteviz. brown slug with black spots respectively in the four plant nurseries. Population density of
slugs and snails was maximum in the month of August in all the plant nurseries indicating moisture
ranging from 32.36 to 33.5 and temperature ranging from 21.5 to 23.25°C favours the population
growth of both slugs and snails. Snail, M. indica and slug, F. alte preferred sandy loamy alkaline
soil with high moisture, nitrogen, particle density, high organic matter content, high potassium and
phosphorous concentrations, porosity and low bulk density.
... Two individuals of S. plebeia slugs were placed into each box, supplied daily with fresh cabbage leaves and remoistened as needed (Ali, 2011). The time of oviposition, the number of egg clutches and the number of eggs per clutch were determined monthly throughout the generation period (Godan, 1983). The eggs of each clutch were transferred to new boxes which prepared as the parent boxes and placed at the same depth of laying. ...
... Land snails are destructive agricultural pests causing economic damage to a wide variety of plants, in cluding vegetables, forage crops, tree fruits, shrubs, flowers, green ground cover and newly sown lawn grasses. Moreover, they play an important role in transmitting and spreading diseases to cultivated plants (Godan 1983;Baker 1989). The clover land snail, Monacha ob structa, is the most common and serious pest in Egypt, causing substantial damage to different agricultural crops in various governorates. ...
As it is known that the excessive use of pesticides causes many environmental problems, the effects of four aqueous plant extracts and their powders [Solanum nigrum L., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, Salix mucronata Thunb. and Lawsonia inermis L.] were evaluated as natural molluscicides on the land snail Monacha obstructa (Family: Hygromiidae) under laboratory conditions. Three different bioassay methods were used: contact, leaf-dipping and bait techniques. The results indicated that, using all methods, S. Nigrum extract was the most toxic extract for the terrestrial snail M. obstructa. The contact technique of the tested plant extracts was the most effective method of application compared to other methods. Moreover, using plant extracts was better than using powders of these plants for controlling the terrestrial snail M. obstructa. In addition, the results indicated that the aqueous extract of S. nigrum gave the highest percentage of reduction in the snail population when assessed under field conditions. The obtained data showed that plant extracts were significantly effective against the terrestrial snail and could be used as alternatives to pesticides in integrated pest management.
... These outcomes were supported by Godan (1983) published that the effectiveness of molluscicides against snails increases in a combination with other active ingredient. Similarly, Sallam and El-Wakeil (2012) reported that the combinations of salts with other different molluscicides in a bait formulation or by spraying represent an effective means for control exotic snails. ...
... Before discussing the obtained results, it is important to mention that, problems caused by snails on agricultural crops were reported by many authors at different countries of the world (Baker, 1989;Newman et al., 1994;Castielleio et al., 1996), moreover in Egypt land snails occurred at different Governorates attacking many agricultural crops (Ismail et Our obtained results are in general agree with those reported by many authors. Godan (1983) showed, using herbicides not only kill weeds but also mollusks either through the animal skin or by ingestion through the intestine. Population density of terrestrial snails is obviously increased during spring months as compared to low or moderate values during winter and autumn months (Ghamry et al., 1993; Abo Bakr, 2011) therefore, application of molluscicides effectively applied during the activity period of the snails. ...
... Gastropods (Phylum: Mollusca) including snails and slugs are a diverse group of aquatic and terrestrial organisms (Godan, 1983;South, 1992;Tan & Grewal, 2001). Of terrestrial gastropods, only a few are considered pests of agriculture and horticulture. ...
Certain slug species are considered agricultural and horticultural pests worldwide. Nematodes offer a potential solution as biocontrol agents in controlling slug populations due to their natural associations with terrestrial gastropods. In some cases, they provide higher specificity and more efficient pest management outputs than many chemical or physical practices currently available. One of the most well-known biocontrol agents of slugs is a facultative parasite, Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita, which has been widely established as a biocontrol agent after
it was patented and commercialized as a molluscicide product (Nemaslug ® with the associated bacteria symbiont, Moraxella osloensis) in 1994 in the UK. However, Canada had no previous record of any Phasmarhabditis species until a recent discovery of a Canadian strain of P. californica collected from a local nursery in Edmonton, Alberta. This species was originally isolated from California and subsequently marketed by BASF as a biocontrol agent (Nemaslug® 2.0) against slugs in England, Scotland, and Wales in 2022. However, the immediate use of this species as a biocontrol agent is currently not available in Canada until a
proper risk assessment of the biocontrol product Nemaslug 2.0 with the active organisms P. californica (with the bacteria symbiont, Moraxella osloensis) is made and its biology fully understood. First, I conducted an extensive survey to identify the diversity, distribution, and abundance of pest slug species and their associated nematodes in selected agricultural and horticultural sites in Alberta. I further investigated if any Phasmarhabditis species were present in the survey sites. I collected 1331 slugs belonging to nine species, with Deroceras reticulatum being the most common. Forty-five samples (3.38%) were positive for nematodes, the majority were identified to species level: Alloionema appendiculatum, Caenorhabditis briggsae, Caenorhabditis elegans, Panagrolaimus subelongatus, and Mesorhabditis spiculigera. I did not isolate P. californica from any of the slugs collected from these survey sites, which included the original site where P. californica was discovered. However, four D. reticulatum slugs retrieved from a residential garden sample were infected with P. californica, thereby suggesting a
possible fragmented distribution for this strain in the province. I then used an agar-based chemotaxis assay to evaluate the host preference of the laboratory-cultured Canadian strain of P. californica against four pest slug species, D. reticulatum, A. rufus, A. fasciatus, and A. valentianus. I showed that P. californica was strongly attracted to mucus of all slug species except for D. reticulatum for which I observed a weak attraction. In addition, I checked the host preference of a co-occurring nematode, Pristionchus entomophagus, a necromenic nematode on the same host species to check if they would have a similar host preference as P. californica. P.
entomophagus showed a significant attraction to the mucus of D. reticulatum while being strongly repulsive to A. rufus. Given that these two nematode species have potential similarities in chemoattraction profiles towards D. reticulatum, I then investigated the efficacy of the infectivity of P. californica as a biocontrol agent in the presence of P. entomophagus. The ability to cause mortality in slugs infected by P. californica was the same in single and mixed infections, i.e., mortality rates remained the same despite its co-occurrence with P. entomophagus. Both in single and mixed infection treatments, the number of P. californica that entered the slug host also remained comparable and statistically non-significant. However, the
number of progeny (F1) in mixed treatments was lower than that of the single treatments for P. californica. Interestingly, P. entomophagus was not affected by concomitant infection with P. californica. These discoveries on the local strains of Phasmarhabditis support the possibility of using P. californica as a biological control agent within Canada. Still, further investigation is needed on the persistence and efficacy of P. californica in the presence of other nematode species in the soil community
... Independent studies in other geographic regions have also recorded the presence of pest gastropods such as Lissachatina fulica, Arion sp., Deroceras reticulatum, Deroceras laeve, Milax gagates, and Laevicaulis sp. inside natural forests systems that pose threats to native species [25][26][27][28][29][30][31]. ...
Sri Lanka is home to 253 terrestrial gastropod species, most of which are endemic. However, limited research has explored the diversity, distribution, and influencing variables of these gastropods. This study sampled gastropods in tropical montane rainforests by establishing 10-50 1-m2 sampling plots across 60 randomly selected sites. Among the 46 recorded species, 79% were native, and 17% were exotic. Species representative of the five endemic genera to the island and two endemic semi-slug species were recorded from these forests. Native gastropod species were primarily found in forest interiors, while exotic species inhabited forest buffer regions. The distribution of most native species is influenced by elevation, air temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, and soil pH, while elevation and rainfall play a significant role in the distribution of most exotics. Exotics display broader environmental tolerance compared to natives, enabling exotics to invade the forests. The restricted habitat of many native species within deep canopy forests makes them highly vulnerable to habitat change, whereas exotics thrive under altered conditions.
... They enable breakdown of organic matter, nutrient recycling and become prey for a number of invertebrates like carnivorous mollusks and vertebrates like birds, herpetofauna and small mammals (Deepak et al., 2010;Jimoh et al., 2011). Soil invertebrates particularly malacofauna are considered as effective bio monitors of particulate pollution, residual soil pollution like heavy metals and radioactive pollution (Berger et al., 1993;Godan, 1983). As molluscan communities are highly sensitive to chemical pollution therefore considered as exceptional water quality indicators for local and regional studies. ...
... pesticides to control land snails is not environmentally friendly and has adverse side effects on the non-target organisms. Moreover, it is difficult to control terrestrial snails by chemical methods (Godan, 1983). Thus, biological control is the most suitable way to minimize these problems. ...
... The snail samples transferred through a highly ventilated plastic box containing the same host plant. The snails were identified using a key given by (Godan, 1983). and onion) in Hehia district, El-Awasga village), Sharkia Governorate during the two growing successive seasons (2019/2020) and (2020/2021). ...
Land snails are a destructive agricultural pest in economic crops, but the populations for that pest are highly
influenced by temperature and humidity, therefore climatic changes affected their behavior, distribution and
population dynamics, for these reasons researchers should follow up on the changes in their behavior, distribution,
and population dynamics.
In this study, a survey study was conducted to define land snail species existing at Sharkia Governorate, Egypt,
from January 2019 to March 2022 in horticultural, vegetable, and field crops and study the population dynamics
for the dominant land snail species. Results showed that there are six species of land snails, these species were,
Monacha cartusiana, Succinea putris, Eobania vermiculata, Theba pisana, Helicella vestalis, and Cochlicella acuta. The
population dynamics of two prevalent land snail species (M. cartusiana and S. putris), were conducted during two
successive growing seasons, the Egyptian clover harbored the highest number of M. cartusiana followed by wheat,
while the onion was the lowest one during the study period. In the same trends, the land snail S. putris recorded
the highest numbers during the growing season of the Egyptian clover crop. Finally, it is concluded that the land
snail M. cartusiana considered the first grade of infestation existed everywhere at Sharkia Governorate, and the
population density of the land snail is increase gradually after winter till reach the maximum density in spring.
... The snail samples transferred through a highly ventilated plastic box containing the same host plant. The snails were identified using a key given by (Godan, 1983). and onion) in Hehia district, El-Awasga village), Sharkia Governorate during the two growing successive seasons (2019/2020) and (2020/2021). ...
Land snails are a destructive agricultural pest in economic crops, but the populations for that pest are highly influenced by temperature and humidity, therefore climatic changes affected their behavior, distribution and population dynamics, for these reasons researchers should follow up on the changes in their behavior, distribution, and population dynamics. In this study, a survey study was conducted to define land snail species existing at Sharkia Governorate, Egypt, from January 2019 to March 2022 in horticultural, vegetable, and field crops and study the population dynamics for the dominant land snail species. Results showed that there are six species of land snails, these species were, Monacha cartusiana, Succinea putris, Eobania vermiculata, Theba pisana, Helicella vestalis, and Cochlicella acuta. The population dynamics of two prevalent land snail species (M. cartusiana and S. putris), were conducted during two successive growing seasons, the Egyptian clover harbored the highest number of M. cartusiana followed by wheat, while the onion was the lowest one during the study period. In the same trends, the land snail S. putris recorded the highest numbers during the growing season of the Egyptian clover crop. Finally, it is concluded that the land snail M. cartusiana considered the first grade of infestation existed everywhere at Sharkia Governorate, and the population density of the land snail is increase gradually after winter till reach the maximum density in spring.
... Mollusc specimens were collected and euthanized by placing them into containers filled with water in the refrigerator for 24 h (Almeida & Mota, 2011;Rocha & D'ávila, 2019). They were fixed in 70% ethanol and dissected under a stereomicroscope for external morphological features (shell and genitalia morphology) which were later compared with specialized literature (Barker, 1999;Godan, 1983;Schileyko, 1999). Juvenile snails and slugs were identified at the genus level, that is, Bulimulus, Sarasinula and Angustipes, as they did not present the reproductive system sufficiently developed to allow species identification. ...
1. Terrestrial gastropods (slugs and snails, Mollusca: Eupulmonata) are destructive pests of brassica crops. These organisms defoliate plants and contaminate the har-vest, leading to reduced crop yield and marketability. Losses caused by molluscs have escalated in recent years in Brazil.
2. We aimed to determine the seasonal activity of gastropods in brassica fields and unravel the environmental variables associated with these dynamics. Gastropod abundance, assemblage and within-plant distribution were also compared among Brassica oleracea cultivars (broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower).
3. Mild temperatures and rainy periods were found to coincide with gastropod peaks. Regression analyses confirmed a positive association of rainfall and humidity with gastropod abundance, whereas gastropod abundance increased with decreasing temperature. Deroceras laeve (Müller) (Agriolimacidae) and Bradybaena similaris (Férussac) (Bradybaenidae) were the most constant species. Mollusc abundance and assemblage differed amid B. oleracea cultivar; cabbage had the highest abundance and its species composition differed from broccoli and cauliflower. Slugs and snails were more concentrated on lower plant portions, regardless of the cultivar.
4. Management efforts should be reinforced in mild-temperature and rainy periods to reduce damage by gastropods, and cabbage should be monitored more closely than other cultivars.
... Animals were reared in plastic boxes containing 10 cm moist soil, clay, peat and sand (1:1:1) and covered with rubber band to prevent snails from escaping. Animals were fed on carrots and lettuce (Godan, 1983). They were adapted to the experimental conditions and finally starved for the last 24h during adaptation. ...
... Terrestrial gastropods are most serious pests attacking agricultural crops around the world. They cause damage to field, vegetable crops and fruit trees, and ornamental plants (Godan, 1983). Succineidae are distributed almost everywhere in the world (Kerney and Cameron, 1979). ...
The present experiment was aimed to through light
on some environmental parameters on two land snails, the
glassy clover snail Monacha cartusiana (Müller)
(Gastropoda: Hygromiidae) and the amber snail Succinea
putris L. (Gastropoda: Succineidae). The laboratory
experiments showed that daily food consumption of different
shell height of S. putris snail arranged as follow: 13.20 mg
by snails with shell height (8-10mm) < 13.33mg (6-8mm) <
15.34 mg (12-14mm) < 15.45mg (10-12mm) < 16.35mg (14-
16mm). The favorite places of aestivation in four different
directions site for M. cartusiana during year were: Western
(231.8) snail > Southern (197.5) > Northern (134) > Eastern
(131.8). While, the favorite places of rest for S. putris could
be arranged as follows: South (207) snails > East (152.2) >
North (136.2) > West (100.9) and it was not entered in
aestivation. On the other hand, the size frequency of S. putris
snails with shell height of 5-6, 7-8 and 9-10 mm and with
shell width 3-4 and 4-5 mm were detected during all months
from January to August 2016, while the size frequency of M.
cartusiana snails with shell height 6-7 and 7-8 mm and with
shell width 11-12 and 13-14mm were observed during
February to August 2016.
... Terrestrial gastropods are most serious pests attacking agricultural crops around the world. They cause damage to field, vegetable crops and fruit trees, and ornamental plants (Godan, 1983). Succineidae are distributed almost everywhere in the world (Kerney and Cameron, 1979). ...
The present experiment was aimed to through light
on some environmental parameters on two land snails, the
glassy clover snail Monacha cartusiana (Müller)
(Gastropoda: Hygromiidae) and the amber snail Succinea
putris L. (Gastropoda: Succineidae). The laboratory
experiments showed that daily food consumption of different
shell height of S. putris snail arranged as follow: 13.20 mg
by snails with shell height (8-10mm) < 13.33mg (6-8mm) <
15.34 mg (12-14mm) < 15.45mg (10-12mm) < 16.35mg (14-
16mm). The favorite places of aestivation in four different
directions site for M. cartusiana during year were: Western
(231.8) snail > Southern (197.5) > Northern (134) > Eastern
(131.8). While, the favorite places of rest for S. putris could
be arranged as follows: South (207) snails > East (152.2) >
North (136.2) > West (100.9) and it was not entered in
aestivation. On the other hand, the size frequency of S. putris
snails with shell height of 5-6, 7-8 and 9-10 mm and with
shell width 3-4 and 4-5 mm were detected during all months
from January to August 2016, while the size frequency of M.
cartusiana snails with shell height 6-7 and 7-8 mm and with
shell width 11-12 and 13-14mm were observed during
February to August 2016.
... In recent years, land snails and slugs increased as dangerous pests on field crops, vegetables and fruits causing an economical damage to these crops not only in quantity but also in quality. In addition, they acted as intermediate hosts for many diseases that spread to plant, man, farm animals and birds; such as fasciola, lungworms and many viral diseases Bishara et al. (1968) and Godan (1983). ...
... Damage caused by snails is due mainly to feeding and to contamination with their bodies, feces or slime, leading to deterioration of the product quality besides, and financial losses (Glesias et al., 2003). The importance of land snails as pest organisms has drastically increased in the past few decades (Godan, 1983 andGathwait andThomas, 1996). Radwan et al., (1992) ;Eshra, (2004); Moran et al., (2004); El-Shahaat et al., (2005 and Ghoneim, (2006) mentioned that, among the most serious land snails in Egypt, the brown garden snail, Eobania vermiculata, and the white snail, Theba pisana. ...
... Several snails, including P. lineata and P. dolioides, have been reported as pests of rice in Suriname (Godan 1983). However, distinguishing among P. lineata and the closely related snail species P. canaliculata (GAS) is very difficult. ...
Golden apple snail (GAS) history, taxonomy, control efforts, and country by country status in 2006, including South and Southeast Asia and Hawai'i.
BACKGROUND
The grey garden slug (Deroceras reticulatum) is considered the most damaging slug pest in global agriculture. Control methods primarily rely on chemical pesticides, which pose environmental risks and potential hazards to human health. There is a need for sustainable management alternatives such as biologically‐based slug control options. However, the efficacy of nonchemical measures for controlling pest slug populations remains limited, particularly in the context of variable outdoor conditions. Neuropeptides and their corresponding receptors have been proposed as promising biological targets for the development of new pest management strategies.
RESULTS
A total of 23 bioactive peptides belonging to the PRX family, previously identified from the grey garden slug, D. reticulatum, were injected into or fed to this species. The detrimental effects of these peptides, including a reduction in body weight and an inhibition of feeding activity, were evaluated in feeding choice tests with D. reticulatum. Furthermore, the bioactive peptide formulated with a lipid particle demonstrated a feeding deterrent effect. One of the myomodulin (MM) peptides, APPLPRY, demonstrated a significant reduction in feeding activity, resulting in a reduction in slug weight or mortality in just 30 min.
CONCLUSION
The results represent the first evidence of a bioactive peptide having detrimental effects on D. reticulatum including causing feeding deterrent for this slug pest. The in vivo results provide insights into the potential development of active ingredients for managing slugs in the field. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease transmitted by freshwater snails with infected Schistosoma parasites. The disease is endemic in many parts of Asia, Africa, and South America affecting people who cannot avoid contact with water, either because of their profession or because of a lack of reliable source of safe water for drinking, washing and bathing. Seed oil extract of Azadirachta indica as well as the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Areca catechu were tested on freshwater snails Bulinus sp. Bioassays were performed on eggs and adults of snails at varying concentrations (1, 2.5, 5, 7 and 10 mL/L for A. indica oil and 50, 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600 mg/L for both the aqueous and ethanol extracts of A. catechu). The result revealed that mortality increased with ascending concentration. There was a significant difference in the molluscicidal activities of the three extracts (P < 0.05). Among the tested the plant extracts, A. indica seed oil showed the highest molluscicidal activity (100%) from 7 mL/L. Meanwhile, the lowest molluscicidal activity (2.5%) was found in the A. catechu aqueous extract. It was also observed that the potency of the extracts to inhibit egg hatching increased as the concentrations increased. Azadirachta indica seed oil and the ethanolic extract of A. cathetu could be considered as a veritable means of controlling the schistosomiasis vector. Also, in endemic areas where communities are likely to accept the use of local plants, the studied plants stand as good candidates to replace the expensive conventional medicines.
The grey garden slug (Deroceras reticulatum), a common terrestrial slug native to Europe with a global distribution including North America, is commonly considered the most severe slug pest in agriculture. The nematode Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita, which has been used in the U.K. and Europe as a commercial biocontrol agent since 1994, has also recently been collected in Oregon and California and has long been considered a candidate biocontrol agent for slug management in the U.S. In this study, we report differential gene expressions in nematode-infected slugs using RNA-seq to identify slug immune-related genes against nematodes. Comparison of gene expression levels between the whole bodies of a nematode-infected slug (N-S) and an uninfected control slug (C-S) revealed that there were a total of 39,380 regulated unigenes, of which 3084 (3%) were upregulated and 6761 (6%) were downregulated at greater than 2-fold change (FC > 2) in the nematode-infected slug. To further investigate the biological functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), gene ontology (GO) and functional enrichment analysis were performed to map the DEGs to terms in the GO, eukaryotic ortholog groups of proteins (KOG) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome Pathway (KEGG) databases. Among these DEGs, approximately 228 genes associated with immunity or immune-related pathways were upregulated 2-fold or more in the N-S compared to C-S. These genes include toll, Imd, JNK, scavenger receptors (SCRs), C-type lectins (CTLs), immunoglobulin-like domains, and JAK/STAT63 signaling pathways. From the RNA-seq results, we selected 18 genes and confirmed their expression levels by qRT-PCR. Our findings provide insights into the immune response of slugs during nematode infection. These studies provide fundamental information that will be valuable for the development of new methods of pest slug control using pathogenic nematodes in the field.
Background Acrylamide derivatives have a potential biological activity as well as acting as precursors in many
organic syntheses. Moreover, acrylamides and their derivatives cause convulsions and diffused damage to different
sections of the nervous system of infected animals. Novel copper and zinc chelates originated from (E)-3-(4-
bromophenyl)-2-cyanoacrylamide (L1), and (E)-2-cyano-3-(4-nitrophenyl)acrylamide (L2) were prepared, and their
chemical skeletons were identified by infrared and mass spectra. The obtained compounds were screened in vitro
against the brown garden snail, Eobania vermiculata using the contact method along 72 h. Stock solutions of tested
compounds were prepared utilizing distilled water and DMSO mixture, and four concentrations of each compound
were prepared (50, 150, 250 and 350 ppm). Eobania vermiculata snails were treated with LC50
concentrations of prepared
compounds for 3 days, and live snails were used to estimate the level of some liver and mucous secretion enzymatic
biomarkers: transaminases enzymes (Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)),
Total Protein content (TP), Acid Phosphatases (ACP) and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP).
Results The results demonstrated that the examined compounds have a relatively toxic effect toward the screened
species. Zinc complexes displayed a higher toxicity than copper ones. The results authenticated considerable high
effects of the synthesized compounds on investigated enzymes.
Conclusions The promising effects of Cu(II), Zn(II) complexes (1, 2) on stimulating the mucous secretion of tested
snails are clear through the elevated levels of ALP and ACP enzymes of treated snails. The enhancement or reduction
of AST, ALT level and TP content of treated snails demonstrated the effects of prepared compounds on liver functions
of these species.
The Mediterranean is characterised by high biodiversity and numerous endemic species. These species are not only present in natural habitats, but also inhabit areas under human influence, such as agricultural lands. In the biodiversity assessment of Mediterranean vineyards and olive orchards within Zadar County, in Croatia, we identified eight endemic species with Mediterranean distribution, six with a Balkan Peninsula distribution, four with Dinaric Alps distribution and three species rare and endangered in Europe. Alongside these species, we have recorded five new species for Croatian fauna, many of those identified by combining morphological characteristics and the DNA barcoding tool. Araneae and Coleoptera contributed the highest number of endemic species and groups with new record were the following: Coleoptera, Diptera and Araneae. Compared to other sites, an olive orchard with ecological pest management (EPM), surrounded by natural ecosystems, had the highest ratio of endemic and rare species. Our findings emphasise that agricultural lands in the Mediterranean can be habitats for endemic and rare species and that future biodiversity research of these habitats is highly important, to monitor potential biodiversity changes and motivate future species and ecosystem conservation.
Samples were collected from the land snail Eobania vermiculata from the Imam Hussain nurseries and gardens in the holy city of Karbala, Iraq, during the period from February 2020 to April of the same year. Some observations were made on the phenotypic characteristics of this species, and photographing and classifying specimens facilitated the identification of the snail. The results showed that this record of the aforementioned snail is the first record of a snail in the Karbala city.
BACKGROUND
The land snail, Theba pisana, is one of the most important threats facing agriculture around the globe. Boric acid (BOA) is currently used as a safe alternative molluscicide to control land snails in sustainable agriculture, but the mechanisms of toxicity have not yet been investigated. The present study characterizes the lethal and sub‐lethal (0.5 and 1 mg g⁻¹) toxic effects of BOA‐contaminated food for 14 days by examining physiological, biochemical and histopathological indicators in T. pisana to understand the mechanisms underlying its toxic action.
RESULTS
BOA was found to be lethal against T. pisana with LC50 values of 24.7 and 8.05 mg g⁻¹ after 3 and 7 days of exposure, respectively. BOA sublethal concentrations led to a significant reduction in food consumption and growth of snails after 14 days of exposure. BOA also caused a significant increase in testosterone levels, whereas an opposite effect was observed in estradiol levels. An increase in progesterone levels in snails in the 0.5 mg g⁻¹ BOA group and a decrease in the 1 mg g⁻¹ BOA group were observed after all exposure times. Moreover, the lipid peroxidation level and catalase activity were elevated, whereas acetylcholinesterase activity was inhibited in the treated snails. Alteration in glutathione‐S‐transferase activity was noticed after exposure to both sublethal concentrations. In addition, BOA induced histopathological alterations in the digestive gland of T. pisana.
CONCLUSION
Our findings provide novel insights into how physiological, biochemical and histopathological alterations can be used to explore the mechanisms underlying BOA toxicity against snails. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of Eucalyptus globulus oil and methanolic extract of Ricinus communis seeds on the reproductive biology of the land snail Theba pisana. For this purpose, the snails were exposed to different concentrations of these plant extracts for six weeks. Rates of oviposition, hatching percentages, reproductive hormones and the histological structures of the hermaphrodite gland were estimated. Antioxidant enzymes were also estimated. The obtained results revealed that all tested concentrations of both tested natural products exerted hazardous effects on exposed snails. The mean egg number/snail treated with 2% E. globulus and R. communis were significantly decreased to 22 and 14 eggs respectively compared to 79 eggs for control. The hatching rates were dramatically decreased with increasing concentrations of both products. 2% of R. communis extract caused highly significant decrease in the activities of CAT, SOD, GST and MDA antioxidant enzymes while the same concentration of Eucalyptus oil resulted in elevations of CAT and SOD activities and significantly decreased GST and MDA activities. Levels of reproductive hormones were greatly disrupted and the histological structures of hermaphrodite acini as well as various developmental stages of spermatogenesis and oogenesis of treated snails were strictly spoiled.
The white garden snail, Theba pisana is one of the widely distributed gastropods and is a dangerous agricultural pest for many plants. Copper sulfate (CuSO4) is extensively used for controlling a number of molluscs in many areas. In this study, CuSO4 toxicity indices against T. pisana after 24, 48 and 72 h using the topical application technique were estimated. Additionally, in vivo evaluation of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities in T. pisana intoxicated with two sublethal doses of CuSO4 (0.25 and 0.5 of LD50) after 24, 48 and 72 h were examined. The results indicated that the LD50 values of CuSO4 were 166.5, 92.59 and 70.63 μg/g b.w for 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. The biochemical effects of CuSO4 led to a significant increment of AChE activities in treated snails after all tested times. While the tested compound inhibited ALP activities in all treated animal groups. AST and ALT activities in treated snails were significantly altered by tested doses of CuSO4. This study suggests that the activity of these enzymes modulation may be one of the biochemical mechanisms of CuSO4 toxicity.
This datasheet on Theba pisana covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Uses, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
This datasheet on Cornu aspersum covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Uses, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
This datasheet on Gonaxis kibweziensis covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Uses, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
This datasheet on Limax maximus covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
Many terrestrial gastropod species have been dispersed as a result of anthropogenic activities and have adapted to new habitats where they are considered as alien or invasive species. Several synanthropic gastropods are invasive in urban and agricultural environments worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, increased human activities have accelerated the introduction of terrestrial gastropod species, increasing the need to study its gastropod fauna. Our preliminary survey disclosed the presence of ariophantid snails in a number of agricultural nurseries. Based on morphological features of shell, body, and reproductive system, we report the first record of Macrochlamys indica from Saudi Arabia. The phylogenetic analysis obtained from DNA sequences of the mitochondrial COI and 16S regions confirmed the identity of M. indica. One third of the investigated nurseries were infested with this snail, however, we did not find any specimens of M. indica in natural habitats or open agricultural fields. The snail-infested nurseries were distributed all over Saudi Arabia. The occurrence of one haplotype of partial mitochondrial COI sequence from these nurseries suggests that the introduction of M. indica is likely very recent. Based on the obtained results, it is recommended that control measurements must be implemented in order to eradicate or at least restrict the dissemination of M. indica from nurseries to natural habitats or agricultural fields.
Land mollusks are one of the most destructive agricultural pests worldwide, the management of which depends on synthetic molluscicides. However, many of these molluscicides are harmful to nontarget organisms. Hence, there is a need to develop alternative ecofriendly molluscicides that are less impactful toward nontarget organisms. So, an investigation into the fumigant toxicity and feeding deterrent effect of essential oils (EOs) from Lavandula dentata L. (Lamiaceae), Juniperus procera Hochst. (Cupressaceae), and Mentha longifolia (L.) Huds. (Lamiaceae) against the land snail Monacha obstructa (Pfeiffer, 1842) (Hygromiidae) was performed. L. dentata EO exhibited the highest fumigant toxicity with LC50 values of 8.68 μL/L air and 7.24 μL/L air after 24 h and 48 h exposure periods, respectively. Its main components were camphor, 1,8-cineole, fenchone, and β-myrecene. The fumigant toxicity of J. procera EO was lower than that of L. dentata, with LC50 values of 25.63 μL/L air and 20.11 μL/L air after 24 h and 48 h exposure periods, respectively. The major constituents of J. procera EO were α-pinene, p-cymene, and β-ocimene. The analysis of M. longifolia EO showed that pulegone, and menthol were the major constituents. However, it displayed no fumigant toxicity up to 50 μL/L air. The three EOs exhibited a strong feeding deterrent effect at sublethal concentrations. The EOs extracted from L. dentata, J. procera and M. longifolia are promising ecofriendly botanical molluscicides against the land snail M. obstructa.
Healthcare textiles are gaining great attention in the textile industry. Electrospun nano-fibers are considered the golden soldiers due to their strength, flexibility, and eco-friendly properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the potency of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers loaded with newly biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) as a wound healing dressing. Chocolate-band snail (Eobania vermiculata) mucus (which is part of the Mollusca defense system) was used as a novel reducing and stabilizing agent. Data indicated the effectiveness of Eobania vermiculata's mucus in silver nanoparticle synthesis after a 24 h incubation time. The biosynthesized AgNPs-SM showed a 13.15 nm particle size, −22.5 mV ζ potential, and 0.37 PDI, which proved the stability of the synthesized nanoparticles. Eobania vermiculata mucus and AgNPs-SM showed potent antibacte-rial activity, especially against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The electrospinning technique was applied in the fabrication of PVA/AgNPs-SM nanofibers, which were homogenous with a fine diameter of about 100-170 nm and showed a significantly high antimicrobial activity. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed that PVA/AgNPs-SM nanofibers were safe and efficiently enhanced the wound healing process (typical histological picture of the proliferative phase with compact and well aligned colla-gen fibers in the dermal tissue after 12 days) together with bacterial growth inhibition in the infected skin area.
Miscanthus x giganteus (Miscanthus) grass shelterbelts can deliver multiple ecosystem services on New Zealand commercial dairy farms. However, there has been little investigation into how these shelterbelts contribute to insect pest management. Here, on a Canterbury dairy farm, we investigated what generalist surface-dwelling invertebrate natural enemies of insect pests inhabit three separate Miscanthus shelterbelts compared to three unmanipulated field margin plots. The potential contribution of these natural enemy assemblages to future biological control was also investigated. To measure this, live moth egg baits with associated pitfall trapping were deployed in autumn, winter and spring of 2015. Miscanthus and the field margin plots were found to have similar potential natural enemy richness but differed in their community composition. The potential predation rate of pests in Miscanthus was 85% higher than in the field margin. Infrared video and Sanger sequencing confirmed that the harvestman Phalangium opilio and the slug Deroceras reticulatum consumed the egg baits in Miscanthus. Conversely, no bait-consuming invertebrates were identified in the field margin. These preliminary results indicate potential natural enemies inhabit Miscanthus and may consume insect pest eggs on the soil-surface. However, to achieve anyinsect pest suppression, further habitat manipulation would be required.
ResearchGate has not been able to resolve any references for this publication.