DUE TO AN INVASION OF GIANT SNAILS DANGEROUS FOR MAN

ENTIRE NEIGHBORHOODS LOOPED IN FLORIDA

A snail considered to be one of the most dangerous in the world has been discovered in Florida (United States). To eradicate it, the authorities have placed several neighborhoods under very strict control. The return trips of the inhabitants are monitored.

In Florida (United States), the inhabitants of certain neighborhoods received strict instructions after the discovery of a very dreaded species of snail on June 2. As our colleagues from CNN report, in Broward County, it is now forbidden to enter or leave with plants, soil, compost or even garden trash. According to authorities, a giant African snail has was discovered in this area.

This is considered one of the most dangerous in the world. Also called Lissachatina fulica or Achatine, it is one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

"These snails could be devastating"

These snails which measure up to 15 cm long can eat at least 500 types of plants but also walls, garbage cans and even road signs. Their calcium-filled shells have ridges so sharp they can burst the tires of cars that run them over.

"These snails could be devastating to agriculture and natural areas in Florida, causing extensive damage to tropical and subtropical environments," the state's Department of Agriculture said Tuesday.

Very dangerous for humans

In addition, they are also very dangerous for humans, as carriers of a parasite called "rat lungworm", which can cause meningitis. Symptoms are serious since this parasite causes swelling of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

To eradicate the snails, state officials established two treatment areas. They are going to spray it with a metaldehyde-based product, which could be enough to exterminate the molluscs.