When an exotic pet may become a dangerous pest
The Giant African snail (Lissachatina fulica), is a terrestrial gastropod native to East Africa, listed among the top 100 worst invasive alien species in the world. It reduces biodiversity and causes serious economic and environmental losses, and poses public health risks because it is an intermediate host for parasites that can cause zoonotic diseases. The hermaphroditism of this animal combined with its ability to reproduce without the presence of another individual, greatly increases its ability to invade new areas.
Lissachatina fulica was first found in Europe in Vel’ký Krtíš, Slovakia, in July 2009.
A recent study reports for the first time the finding of a specimen of L. fulica in a protected area of Piedmont (Avigliana Lakes Nature Park), northwest Italy, which is part of the European Natura 2000 network and is listed as a Site of Community Importance according to the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) and as a Special Protection Area according to the Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (2009/147/EC).
This case shows how essential is to inform buyers and owners about the potential risks of releasing exotic animals into the wild. In Italy a ministerial decree sets the rule for holding Invasive Alien Species.
To reduce the spread of invasive species, awareness amongst public must be raised, and surveys should be planned, also engaging people through Citizen Science.
Easin considers citizens’ involvement an asset, and developed coordinated initiatives, including an APP, allowing users to report species of Union concern. Download it and help us monitor invasive alien species!
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