A CIPMC team checks the spread of the giant African snail in Malappuram’s Nannammukku

A team of experts from the Central Center for Integrated Pest Management, Kochi, explains to a farmer how to repel giant African snails, in Nannammukku. | Photo credit: SAKEER HUSSAIN

A team from the Central Integrated Pest Management Center (CIPMC), Kochi, inspected areas affected by giant African snails in Nannammukku grama panchayat, Malappuram and organized an awareness program for farmers.

The inspection followed a resident’s complaint about an increasing slug infestation. The team was led by Plant Protection Officer Presty John and Assistant Plant Protection Officer Renjumol R.

Officials visited affected farms and nearby areas and interacted with farmers and residents. They explained the life cycle of the giant African snail, its impact on crops and its high reproductive rate.

“Slugs multiply quickly and can cause damage to a range of crops. Keeping farms and their surroundings clean is an important step in controlling them,” said Mrs John.

Distributed leaflets

The team distributed brochures on snail control prepared by CIPMC. He advised farmers to clear weeds, brush and other places where snails can hide, and to collect and destroy them using 25% salt water.

Officials also suggested placing wet jute bags with cabbage or papaya leaves or banana peels to attract the slugs and then destroying them with a saline solution or a natural molluscicide.

“Farmers can also use bait traps made from wheat flour, jaggery, yeast and copper sulphate to attract and kill the snails,” Ms John said.

The team was accompanied by Nannammukku grama panchayat president Shanthini Raveendran, ward member Sudheesh, agricultural assistant Krishi Bhavan Devi CP and other officials.

Published – 09 Oct 2026 07:00 IST