Alappuzha: The Kerala Centre for Pest Management (KCPM) has issued a public alert over a growing infestation of Giant African Snails in the district, warning of serious threats to both agriculture and public health.
With the onset of the monsoon, officials have observed a widespread presence of these invasive pests across multiple regions in Alappuzha. The KCPM has urged farmers and residents to remain vigilant, highlighting the snail’s destructive impact on crops and the potential health risks from its mucus, which may carry parasites capable of causing encephalitis in humans.
“These snails are highly reproductive — a single snail can lay up to 900 eggs, with a hatching rate of nearly 90%. They are hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive organs, and under favourable conditions can live up to 10 years, leading to rapid population explosions,” the KCPM said.
Common crops under threat include banana, turmeric, ginger, papaya, leafy vegetables, tubers, and citrus fruits — with banana leaves suffering the most damage.
The agency has called for community-based eradication efforts and inter-departmental coordination, involving local bodies, the Agriculture and Health departments, and other agencies. Large-scale awareness campaigns are also being recommended.
The public is advised to avoid direct contact with the snails and to follow official guidelines for safe removal and disposal.