The Giant African Snail (GAS) is a significant pest that poses both agricultural and health risks in Trinidad and Tobago. This invasive species is often spotted in humid environments, particularly during the rainy season, hiding beneath leaves, vehicles, garbage, and in flooded drains across Tobago.
You can recognize this hazardous creature by its distinctive features:
Cone-shaped shell: Usually with seven or more ridges.
Coloration: Reddish-brown vertical stripes.
Trails: Leaves a noticeable thick slime trail.
Waste: Accumulations of faeces are often visible.
Similar to many pests, the Giant African Snail carries a vector, specifically the rat lungworm. This parasite can cause eosinophilic meningitis in humans if transmitted from the snail. Transmission can occur through direct contact with the snail or consumption of unwashed plant-based food contaminated with the snail’s slime or faeces.
The Division of Food Security, Natural Resources, Environment, and Sustainable Development in Tobago urges citizens to exercise extreme caution when encountering these snails.
Currently, a specialized team has been assembled by the Division to systematically eradicate Giant African Snails from different communities on scheduled days across Tobago.
If you discover these pests around your home, you can take steps to eliminate them yourself, but it is essential to use protective gear (like gloves). Here’s a safe disposal method:
Collect snails: Place them in a plastic container with a securely fitted lid.
Submerge: Add a concentrated salt or bleach solution to the container and submerge the snails for 24 hours.
Incinerate: After 24 hours, incinerate the snails (and the container, if plastic) in a metal barrel.
If you find it challenging to dispose of these snails by yourself, the Division recommends contacting their Plant Protection Unit at 482-7528 for assistance. Your vigilance and cooperation are crucial in controlling this invasive and hazardous pest in Tobago.
