Xerosecta explanata

Systematic position. Xerosecta explanata is a land gastropod mollusk from the family Hygromiidae, order Stylommatophora. This snail species is widely distributed in Mediterranean countries and coastal areas, where environmental conditions support the development of mollusks that require specific humidity levels for their active life cycle.

Crops damaged. This pest is a polyphage and causes significant damage to a wide range of agricultural crops. Vegetable crops, various field plants, and ornamental plantings in park areas are particularly vulnerable. The snail is capable of damaging both young seedlings and developed plants by feeding on their succulent tissues.

Biology and life cycle. The life cycle of this mollusk is closely linked to seasonal moisture changes. During dry periods, Xerosecta explanata enters a state of estivation, attaching itself to plant stems or hiding under stones. With the arrival of rainy weather, the snails become active, feeding and reproducing intensively by laying eggs in the topsoil or damp plant debris.

Nature of damage and harmfulness. The damage consists of consuming leaves, stems, and fruits. Typical irregular holes remain on plants, and often the snails destroy the entire leaf epidermis, leaving only the skeletonized veins. With a high population density, the pest can destroy a significant portion of the harvest in a short time, degrading the market quality of the produce and reducing the photosynthetic capacity of the plants.

Protection measures. Controlling this pest requires a comprehensive approach, combining agrotechnical and chemical methods. It is essential to maintain cleanliness in the field by removing weeds and plant residues that serve as shelters for the mollusks. Additional measures include:

• regular soil cultivation to disrupt egg-laying sites;
• using physical barriers (mulching with gravel or wood ash);
• application of molluscicides (products based on metaldehyde or iron phosphate) during mass outbreaks.