First Report of Giant African Snail (Lissachatina fulica) in a Protected Area of the Cottian Alps, Northwest Italy

Abstract

The Giant African snail (Lissachatina fulica) is listed among the top 100 worst invasive alien species. Native to East Africa, it has been introduced voluntarily or accidentally into more than 50 countries, where it impacts negatively on biodiversity, ecosystems, agriculture, and public health. Here we describe for the first time the finding of a specimen of L. fulica in a protected area of the Cottian Alps (Avigliana Lakes Nature Park, northwest Italy). The snail underwent morphometric analysis and species identification. Given its reproductive characteristics (i.e., hermaphroditism with self-fertilization), it poses a potential threat to the biodiversity of the area and is a vector of zoonotic parasites for humans and animals. Health monitoring of specimens found in the wild and those kept as pets is of crucial importance, as is the establishment of monitoring plans in these areas.