White Italian snail

Theba pisana

Overview:

Type of Pest: Theba pisana, commonly known as the White Garden Snail, is a land snail species that can be a pest in agricultural and horticultural settings.

Physical Characteristics:

  • Shell: The shell of Theba pisana is typically creamy-white to light beige, with a conical shape and a pointed apex.
  • Size: Adult snails can range from 10 to 25 mm in diameter.

Life Cycle:

  • Egg Stage: Eggs are laid in clusters in the soil.
  • Juvenile Stage: Hatching into juvenile snails that go through various growth stages.
  • Adult Stage: Fully developed snails emerge from the juvenile stage.

Identification of Crop Infestation:

  • Feeding Damage: White Garden Snails feed on a variety of plants, causing damage to leaves and stems.
  • Slimy Trails: The presence of slimy trails on plant surfaces or the ground.
  • Visible Snails: Adult snails are easily visible, especially during periods of activity.

Management Strategies:

  1. Cultural Practices:

    • Mulching: Use mulch to create dry surfaces that discourage snail activity.
    • Remove Debris: Eliminate hiding spots, such as debris or plant litter.

  2. Manual Removal:

    • Handpicking: Physically remove snails from plants and the surrounding area.
    • Traps: Set up traps, such as boards or inverted grapefruit halves, to attract and collect snails.

  3. Natural Predators:

    • Predatory Insects and Birds: Encourage natural predators like beetles, birds, and other insects.
    • Nematodes: Some nematodes are effective in controlling snail populations.

  4. Chemical Control:

    • Snail Baits: Use baits containing iron phosphate, which is less toxic to non-target organisms.
    • Copper-Based Products: Copper-based repellents can deter snails.

  5. Barriers:

    • Copper Tape: Apply copper tape or barriers around plant stems to repel snails.
    • Physical Barriers: Use diatomaceous earth or other physical barriers to protect plants.

Note: The White Garden Snail can be a nuisance in gardens and agricultural settings, feeding on a wide range of plants. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices that combine cultural, manual, and chemical control methods are essential for effective snail management. Always follow recommended guidelines and consider the environmental impact of control measures.