La expansion of the African snail (Lissachatina fulica) at Eastern Antioquia has raised alarm bells among citizens and environmental authorities. Cornare, the entity in charge of environmental protection in the region, has recently notified a worrying increase in reports of the presence of this invasive mollusk in different parts of its jurisdiction.
According to updated data, the African snail has already been identified in eight municipalities including San Carlos, San Rafael, Cocorná, San Roque, San Luis, Santo Domingo, Puerto Triunfo and the lower part of SonsónThis progress contrasts markedly with the situation recorded in 2021, when only three localities reported the problem. Humid conditions, abundant vegetation and lack of natural predators They turn out to be determining factors for the accelerated development and reproduction of this animal outside its natural habitat.
Why is the African snail a risk to the environment and health?
El African snail is characterized by its big size –can reach the 20 centimeters in length– and his conical shell with spirals of brown, cream and violet colors. It is common to find it in gardens, vacant lots, wet areas and areas near water sources, as well as in places where debris and organic matter remains accumulate.
From a health point of view, contact with this mollusk or its slime can pose serious risks to people and pets. The African snail It can be a carrier of bacteria, fungi and parasites responsible for diseases such as meningitis, intestinal, respiratory and skin infections. Its passage through garbage dumps, animal remains and waste makes it a vector of pathogens capable of affecting both the population and the local fauna.
In addition to the health damage, the The presence of this species impacts agriculture, affecting crops, ornamental plants and the productivity of rural areas. The voracity of the African snail It can destroy leaves, fruits and even entire crops, negatively impacting the economy and food security of rural families.
Practical recommendations for the population
In order to contain the spread and prevent incidents, Cornare advises a series of measures that both residents and institutions should adopt.:
- Do not touch snails or slime, especially if there are open wounds, and avoid contact with eyes, mouth and nose.
- In case of accidental contact, wash your hands immediately with water and soap.
- Avoid using poisons to control the pest, as they can be toxic to children, native wildlife and pets and even contaminate soil and water.
- Do not transfer snails from one place to another or collect them as pets or bait.
- Remove debris, trash and plant debris in gardens and common areas, since these materials are usually a refuge for snails.
- Warn children about the dangers of handling these snails and encourage them to report any sightings to the authorities.
- Carefully inspect plants and objects before moving them to avoid inadvertently transporting snails or eggs.
Furthermore, waste and debris must be disposed of properly in designated areas and never abandon captured snails on public roads or mix them with organic waste.
Control actions and recommended methods
La most effective way to control the pest, according to Cornare's experience, is the physical or mechanical method:
- Harvest manually snails with gloves and, if possible, a mask and protective glasses.
- Soak them in salt water for at least five hours; this solution helps to remove them safely.
- Bury the remains in a deep hole, far from water sources, covering them with earth and lime to prevent them from re-emerging.
The use of chemical solutions is not recommended, as they can cause serious secondary problems for human health and the environment.
The environmental authority maintains an active hotline for reports, available by phone at (604) 546 16 16 ext. 292 and by email at aceballos@cornare.gov.co. Citizen complaints are essential to enable a technical response and the implementation of actions in the affected areas.
In view of the advance of the African snail in the region, Community collaboration and strict adherence to recommendations are essential.Coordination between institutions, farmers, and residents will be key to preventing the presence of this animal from becoming an uncontrolled threat to the environment, agriculture, and public health.
