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What is the economic importance of African giant snails? 

Research Question

What is the economic importance of African giant snails? 
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Academic Insights

The economic importance of African giant snails is multifaceted, encompassing their role as a source of protein, income, and their impact on agriculture and ecosystems.

Key Insights

  • Nutritional and Economic Value:

    • African giant snails are a significant source of animal protein for many communities, particularly in Nigeria, where they are also used for traditional medicine and sacrifices .
    • They are widely consumed and serve as an important source of income, especially for women and unemployed youth in São Tomé .
    • Snail marketing is profitable, with high returns on investment, as evidenced by studies in Nigeria .
  • Agricultural Impact:

    • Despite their economic benefits, African giant snails are also recognized as serious agricultural pests, causing significant damage to crops and vegetation .
    • Integrated management approaches, including cultural, mechanical, chemical, and biological methods, are recommended to mitigate their impact on agriculture .
  • Ecological and Health Concerns:

    • The invasive nature of African giant snails poses threats to biodiversity and ecosystems, as well as public health risks due to their role as vectors for parasites .
    • Studies in urban areas like Cartagena, Colombia, highlight the need for ongoing research to monitor and manage snail populations and their potential health risks .

Conclusion

The African giant snail holds significant economic importance due to its nutritional value and role in local economies. However, its status as an agricultural pest and invasive species necessitates comprehensive management strategies to balance its benefits against its ecological and health impacts.

1

Effects of Land-use and Collection on the Decline of African Giant Snails in Nigeria

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Trade and socioeconomic importance of an invasive giant snail in the endemic-rich island of São Tomé, Central Africa.

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Management of the giant African snail, Achatina fulica (Bowdich) (Stylommatophora: Achatinidae) in India

8 citations | Pest Management in Horticultural Ecosystems | M. Jayashankaret | 2013Cite
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Impact of sundried mango seed kernel meal on the haemolymph of giant African snail (Archachatina marginata)

1 citations | Nigerian Journal of Animal Production | W. Amaduruonyeet | 2020Cite
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AN ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF BORDER CLOSURE BY THE NIGERIA GOVERNMENT ON REGIONAL INTEGRATION IN THE WEST AFRICA REGION

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A study of COVID-19 data from African countries

International Journal of Public Health and Epidemiology, Vol. 10 (8), pp. 001-016, August, 2021 | Kétévi A. Assamaganet | 2020Cite

Related Questions

  • How do African giant snails impact local agriculture?
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  • What is the market demand for African giant snails?
  • How do African giant snails contribute to biodiversity?

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