WOOD ASH AS SOIL TREATMENT FOR INTENSIVE SYSTEM OF GIANT AFRICAN LAND SNAIL PRODUCTION

ABSTRACT

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of different inclusion levels of wood ash as a calcium source supplement on the growth and shell development of Archachatina marginata, a terrestrial snail species commonly reared for consumption. The research was conducted at the snailery unit of the University of Benin Teaching and Research Farm, situated in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. The study was carried out using a conventional rearing system, where various parameters such as weight gain, shell thickness, aperture width, and aperture height were monitored over a period of time. The results, presented in a tabular format, indicate significant differences in the measured parameters among the treatment groups with 0%, 15%, and 30% wood ash inclusion levels. Notably, the average weight gain, shell thickness, and aperture width generally increased with higher levels of wood ash supplementation, suggesting a positive impact on the overall growth and shell morphology of A. marginata. These findings contribute to our understanding of the nutritional requirements, particularly the importance of calcium supplementation, and rearing practices for this economically important snail species, potentially leading to improved production yields and sustainability in small-scale or commercial farming operations in the region.