Cernuella neglecta

Systematic position: Cernuella neglecta belongs to the phylum Mollusca, class Gastropoda, order Stylommatophora, and family Hygromiidae. This land snail has emerged as a significant agricultural pest, particularly in the Mediterranean region and parts of Europe, where environmental conditions support its rapid population growth within diverse farming systems.

Crops affected: This species is a generalist herbivore (polyphage) that attacks a wide variety of cultivated plants. It poses a particular threat to winter cereals, oilseed rape, sunflower, and various vegetable crops. By feeding on both foliage and stems, these snails reduce plant vigor and can cause substantial yield losses during the early stages of crop development.

Biology and life cycle: The lifecycle of Cernuella neglecta is heavily influenced by humidity and temperature. During dry summers, the snails enter an aestivation state, often clustering on stems or other elevated structures. This survival mechanism also facilitates their passive dispersal, as they are frequently harvested along with grain and transported to new locations through agricultural machinery.

Nature of damage and harmfulness: The primary damage involves the physical consumption of plant tissues. Snails can skeletonize leaves or completely devour young seedlings, leading to reduced plant density. Furthermore, the presence of snails in harvested grain poses a significant quality issue, as contamination with their bodies, mucus, and feces increases the moisture content, leading to grain spoilage and mycotoxin risk.

Control measures: Management of Cernuella neglecta requires an integrated approach. Cultural practices, such as deep tillage and weed management, are essential to remove habitats that provide shelter and moisture. Chemical control is implemented using molluscicides, primarily in granular form, which should be applied when the pests are active. Monitoring borders and buffer zones is critical to prevent the colonization of main fields.