ScholarWorks@UNO

Dispersion of Non-Native Channeled Apple Snails (Pomacea spp.) in Jefferson and Orleans Parishes, Louisiana

Channeled apple snails (Pomacea spp.), have been reported in Orleans, Jefferson (on both east and west banks of the Mississippi River), and St. Tammany Parishes of Louisiana. The snails are non-native, highly invasive, and are known to have detrimental impacts on wetland ecosystems and rice farms. Also, these organisms serve as intermediate hosts for the rat lung worm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), a parasite that can be transmitted to humans and potentially cause harm. There are multiple species of channeled apple snails that have been introduced and they cannot be specifically identified without genetic testing. The goal of my research was to map the presence of these snails to obtain information on the direction, method, and rate of dispersion throughout Louisiana. This study specifically focuses on mapping the snails’ presence and direction of dispersion in two regions: City Park in Orleans Parish and Metairie in Jefferson Parish. I surveyed canals and waterbodies in these regions and determined snail presence by identifying specific egg sites. At all egg sites, I conducted approximate counts of egg masses and recorded exact GPS locations. To determine the dispersion rate in these regions in the future, I will compare the most westerly and southerly points with the next mating season (2015). I will also compare dispersion rates between natural and more artificial habitats. Consistent communication of research results will help raise awareness to the general public on the impacts this invasive species can have on the environment.