UWI leads research on invasive giant African snail

AMID growing concerns over the spread of the invasive giant African snail in TT, the University of the West Indies (UWI), St Augustine’s Faculty of Food and Agriculture (FFA) has spearheaded a research initiative to address the threats posed by the species while exploring its potential benefits.

The project, a joint effort with the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), government ministries and community stakeholders, seeks to develop sustainable pest control methods and establish safety guidelines for handling the snails.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries has flagged the giant African snail as a major agricultural pest, warning of its destruction of local crops and its role in spreading diseases such as rat lungworm and salmonella.

The Ministry of Health has also raised concerns, noting the species can absorb harmful agrochemicals and endanger public health.

Despite these warnings, social media activity and anecdotal reports indicate a rising trend of the snail’s consumption, leading to calls for scientific intervention and public awareness campaigns.

While the snail is considered a delicacy in countries like France, Spain and Nigeria, its rapid reproduction rate in TT has made it a destructive invasive species.

Professor Mark Wuddivira, dean of UWI’s FFA, highlighted the importance of sustainable management during a recent visit to Nigeria, where he observed best practices for farming and processing the giant African snail.

“This initiative reflects UWI FFA’s commitment to turning challenges into opportunities,” Wuddivira was quoted in a media release.

“We aim to leverage research and partnerships to explore the potential benefits of (the giant African snail) while mitigating its risks.”

UWI and UTT are also investigating the snail’s nutritional profile and potential economic and pharmaceutical applications.

However, until evidence-based safety guidelines are established, the public has been urged to avoid consuming the giant African snail.

The ministry has cautioned that improper handling or cooking can lead to bacterial contamination.

UWI St Augustine and UTT will host public lectures and community engagement sessions to raise awareness.

“We are excited to develop data-driven solutions to address this complex issue,” Wuddivira added, stressing the initiative’s potential to transform a pressing ecological challenge into an opportunity for innovation.