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Invasive Species: Carthusian Snail

Invasive Species: Carthusian Snail

Carthusian Snail

(Monacha cartusiana)
*Detected in Michigan*

PROHIBITED IN MICHIGAN

Report this species:

Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool

- Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone -MISIN.MSU.edu/tools/apps/#home

 

Identification:

  • Shells are a pale white/yellow color.
  • Shell may have brown stripes.
  • Aperture (opening of shell) is typically the darkest part of the shell in adults.
  • Shells size: 6-10 mm high, 9-17 mm wide.

carthusian snail
Photo courtesy of James D. Young, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org.

carthusian snail
Photo courtesy of James D. Young, USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org.

carthusian snail
Photo courtesy of Lubos R. Kolouch, Bugwood.org.

Habitat: Dry, grassy areas are the preferred habitat of these snails. During the day, they attach to the stems of grasses and plants.

Diet: These exotic snails feed on a wide variety of live and dead plant materials and act as a pest to native vegetation.

Native Range: Mediterranean region and southeastern Europe.

Local Concern: Carthusian snails are an intermediate host for livestock parasites, including sheep lungworm disease. Additionally, established populations may cause damage to horticultural and agricultural crops and threaten native plant communities. Two populations have been found in the Detroit area and are under treatment due to a high pest potential.

Means of Introduction: It is thought that marble, stone and tile imports are significant risk pathways for exotic snails and slugs.

MORE INFORMATION:

Carthusian Snail Invasive Species Alert - Printable PDF