Population characterization and parasitological assessment of the giant African snail ( Achatina fulica) in urban areas of Cartagena, Colombia.

ABSTRACT: Background: The giant African snail, Achatina fulica, is an invasive species recognized for being a serious agricultural pest and an intermediary vector for diverse parasites that cause diseases in humans. The knowledge of the state of African snail populations in urban areas is of great ecological and public health importance. Therefore, our objective was to characterize the status of giant African snail populations present in the city of Cartagena, Colombia, including the assessment of nematode parasites in the specimens. Methods. Sites were visited following information from citizens affected by the presence of the African snail. The specimens were collected and transported to the laboratory; subsequently, they were weighed, measured, and classified by size. Dissect

SUBMITTER: Cano-Perez E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8280942 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature