
That Snail is Back in Florida
The Giant African Snail, Lissachatina fulica, has returned for another “visit” to the Sunshine State. The species is native to East Africa, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world via the pet trade, as a food resource, and by accidental introduction, most likely with ornamental plants. Authorities believe that the current invasion, first detected in New Port Richey, Pasco County, results from the illegal pet trade. Giant African Snails first invaded the Miami area in 1966, and w