Mollusk Survey

The Mollusk Survey is a cooperative project between Clemson-DPI and USDA-APHIS-PPQ. The survey highlights the mission of the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry: to protect South Carolina's agricultural resources and natural ecosystems from the introduction and spread of invasive species and to enhance the efficiency of South Carolina's agriculture. This summer, Clemson University Department of Plant Industry (DPI) will conduct a Mollusk Survey in South Carolina. DPI inspectors will conduct a visual survey at a minimum of 40 locations for Hygromiid snails (Cernuella sp. and Monacha sp.), Cochlicellid snails (Cochlicella sp.), and Apple snails (Pomacea sp.). Any suspect mollusks will be sampled and sent identified.

DPI field/survey inspectors and CAPS surveyor will conduct this survey at ports of entry and other commercial locations that are a pathway risk for mollusk such as tile distributors, marble and other natural stone originating in the Mediterranean region. International markets (where snails are often grown and sold as food) and pet stores where snails are sold for aquariums and as pets are also important survey sites. Additional sites that are also good for survey for mollusk include landfills, nurseries, airports, and warehouses. Other habitats with features snails and slugs prefer, such as vegetated areas, and natural and anthropogenic sources of calcium (for snails), including alkaline soil; limestone quarries and outcroppings; construction sites or dumpsites containing concrete, limestone, or marble; graveyards, headstones, or tombstones; and agricultural fields, orchards, or plantations that use lime to alkalize the soil will also be considered.