Presence of nematodes in giant African land snails kept as pets in Poland

The aim of this study was to assess the presence and identity of nematodes in pet giant African land snails (Lissachatina fulica) in Poland using microscopic and molecular techniques. Lissachatina fulica, syn. Achatina fulica, a giant African land snail is not only considered a free-living invasive species and an intermediate host of some parasites, but is also gaining importance as a pet animal living in close contact with humans. In this research, pooled fecal samples and mucus swabs were obtained from 49 pet giant land snails (11 private collections) living in different regions of Poland. The samples were examined using microscopic techniques (Lugol staining, Baermann larvoscopy) and PCR to investigate the presence of nematodes. The microscopic examinations of fecal samples revealed the presence of nematodes in 63.6% (7/11) of the snail groups. Rhabditid nematodes were found in 27.3% (3/11) of the examined groups. Sequencing of PCR products revealed the presence of gastropod nematodes Phasmarhabditis sp. (KEN1), Poikilolaimus oxycercus and Caenorhabditis nigoni. The genetic material of mammalian parasites, including Crenosoma, was not detected. Given the increasing popularity of L. fulica as pets, understanding their parasitological status is essential for both animal and public health. It also helps meet the expectations of owners who wish to provide proper care for their pet snails.