A fast-growing invasive snail species believed to be eradicated after it was first discovered in Florida decades ago has been spotted again in the state, prompting a quarantine order and meningitis concerns.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) confirmed in a statement that the giant African land snail was discovered by a gardener on June 23 in the New Port Richey area of Pasco County.
According to FDACS, the invasive species is “one of the most damaging” snails in the world owing to it being able to consume at least 500 different types of plants.
“These snails could be devastating to Florida agriculture and natural areas as they cause extensive damage to tropical and subtropical environments,” FDACS said….