Why the invasive apple snail is causing Kenya’s basmati rice to lose its sweet smell of productivity
Kenya’s Mwea Irrigation Settlement Scheme (MIS) is located in Kirinyaga County and falls within two sub counties – Mwea East and Mwea, writes Harrison Rware and Fernadis Makale who are both intrigued by the invasive apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) pest which is wreaking havoc in the fields of concerned rice farmers.
Apple snail: The threat and potential economic impacts on East Africa
Earlier this year, scientists from CABI and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) published new research confirming that the apple snail, Pomacea canaliculata, had been discovered in Kenya for the first time. Widely considered to be one of the most invasive invertebrates of waterways and irrigation systems, the apple snail threatens Kenya’s rice production…
CABI DNA identification confirms discovery of highly invasive apple snail in Kenya
A highly invasive apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) has been discovered in Kenya for the first time. This is what new research published today by CABI scientists and the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) confirms.
Invasive snails leave a trail of destruction
Invasive apple snails, formerly known as Golden Apple Snails (GAS), are an invasive species that pose a threat to crops, ecosystems and even humans. These natives of South America have spread to many other parts of the world, through both deliberate and accidental introductions. Called apple snails because they can grow to the size of…