![]() Egg clutches of the exotic island apple snail tend to have smaller-diameter eggs (about the size of a pin-head) that are more densely packed with many layers of eggs. The egg masses of the Florida apple snail have the largest individual eggs of those species in Florida (about the size of a pea), but the fewest eggs per clutch, typically 20-80. The size, shape and number of eggs can be helpful in identification however, egg clutches can vary in size, color and number of eggs depending on water conditions, season, food availability and age of the snail. These species lay eggs above the waterline on almost any hard surface. While the native Florida apple snail can take up to six months to reach sexual maturity the exotics, island and channeled, reach sexual maturity at approximately two to three months of age. Selective breeding in the aquarium trade has led to color variations and patterns snails may have bright shell colors (e.g., yellow/orange, yellow/green, or copper) and the tissues of the foot may have pigment variations ranging from yellow to orange to gray. Snails in wild populations range in shell color from yellow to brownish-black, and may contain stripes or dimpling. Similarities in appearance among the exotic species can make identification very difficult. The island apple snail is the largest of the known species in Florida with shell sizes up to five inches in length. The island and channeled apple snails are typically larger and have a distinct channel between the whorls. The Florida apple snail is typically 2-3 inches long and the shell is often flat across the top. In Florida, an additional concern is the possible displacement of the native Florida apple snail.Īpple snails vary in size and shape. There is also concern that the snail’s haphazard appetite for large amounts of aquatic vegetation could alter aquatic ecosystems. ![]() Because of damage to crops, the channeled apple snailis listed as one of the world’s worst invaders. Channeled and island apple snails are opportunistic feeders that consume a variety of aquatic vegetation, fruits and vegetables, algae, remains of decaying organisms and other snail eggs. In the last decade, apple snails have received attention because of their ability to damage wetland crops through foraging. The island apple snail has been observed in tidally influenced portions of rivers and along sea walls of canals in south Florida. Although these snails are typically found in freshwater systems, some can tolerate brackish conditions. As of 2013, Florida had exotic populations in at least 29 watersheds in 38 of 67 counties, the most abundant being the island apple snail. The four exotic, nonindigenous Pomacea apple snail species are the island apple snail, channeled apple snail, spike-topped apple snail, and the titan apple snail. Florida Youth Conservation Centers Networkįlorida is home to several species of Pomacea apple snails including one native species, the Florida apple snail, and four exotics native to South America. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |