First, this kind of snail is called African snail, also known as brown cloud agate snail, Dongfeng snail, vegetable snail and so on. Its adult body length can exceed 20 cm at most, and it is a medium-sized and large Lucy animal. Just looking at the name, I believe everyone guessed that it is an exotic creature originating in Africa. However, African snails are a valuable source of protein in their country of origin. Because the meat is delicious, it is also regarded as a top food by local people, and it can be eaten at most 1500 kg a year. China people who claim to be foodies generally don't let go of any ingredients that can be used as food, but they all avoid them and even dare not touch them. This is mainly because this snail is too dirty.
Secondly, it is reported that African giant snails can carry hundreds of pathogens and parasites. Because of their slow crawling, they like to live in dark and humid environments, which are often places where pathogens and parasites are active. Therefore, they are also intermediate hosts of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. They can spread tuberculosis and meningitis. Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the main cause of meningitis, but it is the most common parasite. This parasite will enter the human body through the skin or mouth and nose, and then parasitize in the central nervous system or brain fluid. It can even be disabled or fatal. The most terrible thing is the infected big snail, and the mucus left by its excrement crawling also contains various parasites. Therefore, in order to avoid getting sick from mouth to mouth, the vegetables and fruits you buy outside must be cleaned before use.
Third, however, the harm of African giant snails goes far beyond this. This snail is an omnivorous crop, and trees, fruit trees, vegetables and flowers are all in its diet. When it is hungry, it will also eat the bodies of its companions. Although it is a mollusk, it can chew and digest cement, mainly because its mouth is magical. Their teeth are quite sharp and their eating ability is extremely strong, which is extremely harmful to crops such as vegetables. They are the first batch of harmful alien invasive species announced in China and are known as pastoral killers. Due to the suitable environment and rapid reproduction, African giant snails have established populations in many parts of China, especially in the southern region. Whenever they are active, we can hear all kinds of cases caused by them. Therefore, parents should also warn their children not to touch these snails again, let alone take them home on a whim to make good food.