People should also avoid handling the egg clusters as they may contain a neurotoxin that irritates the eyes and skin. Some apple snails collected in Louisiana have tested positive for rat lungworm, but no human cases have been identified in Louisiana. Most cases are mild and people fully recover, but severe cases can cause chronic nerve damage or even death. Human Health ConcernĪpple snails are also known to be an intermediate host to rat lungworm ( Angiostrongylus cantonesis), a parasite that can infect humans through the consumption of raw or undercooked snail meat or contaminated produce. Feed on a wide variety of native and introduced aquatic plants. Females are able to lay a new cluster every five to 14 days. Each cluster contains between 500 and 700 eggs. Not only is the Big Worm a green, mean, fish slaying machine, its one of the largest charter vessels on the Chesapeake Bay certified to carry 49 passengers. Egg clusters are bright pink and can be seen on vegetation and other hard surfaces like pilings or culverts. Spend the majority of their lives under water but lay their eggs above the water line. Currently found in 30 parishes across southern Louisiana. Highly adaptable and able to survive drought and low oxygen conditions by burronwing in the mud in a dormant-like state.

In Louisiana, found in freshwater lakes, rivers, streams, marshes, ponds, and ditches. Prefer well-oxygenated, slow-moving waters with low salinities. Introduced to the United States due to irresponsible aquarium dumping. Popular aquarium snail native to South America.

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