Georgia Invasive Species Task Force

SUCCINEIDAE, Succinea dominicensis
SUCCINEIDAE, Calcisuccinea dominicensis (Pfeiffer)

These Mollusks have recently been determined to be "actionable" snails. They have been known to arrive in the United States from Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Inspectors should watch for these snails when inspecting any agricultural items from these countries.

Importance

Succinea dominicensis and Calcisuccinea dominicensis (Pfeiffer) can reproduce rapidly in a greenhouse or nursery, resulting in severe losses. They can also become established outdoors where temperatures and humidity are favorable. Their introduction is a significant threat to the US fruit and horticultural plant industries.

Identification

Succinea dominicensis and Calcisuccinea dominicensis (Pfeiffer) closely resemble another "actionable" snail, Succinea costaricana. Succinea dominicensis and Calcisuccinea dominicensis (Pfeiffer) have a thicker shell than most other Succinea spp. they are usually light to pale brown in color, and tend to have a somewhat whitish cast to the shell. Their length is approximately 1 cm (approximately 3/8 inch) or smaller.

Hosts

Reported hosts where the pest has accompanied importation into the US, include: Dracaena sp., Euphorbia sp., and Carica papaya. These pests most likely can also be found on various other hosts.

Prevention

To detect these snails during inspection, Plant Protection and Quarantine Officers should pay special attention to all above ground plant parts, then assure that safeguarding measures are carried out following usual port procedures.