If you’ve spotted groups of bright pink eggs in your garden, they may seem harmless at first, but don’t be deceived.

These striking eggs belong to the invasive apple snail, a harmful species that poses a serious threat to local ecosystems.

Native to South America, apple snails have spread across the globe, damaging plants, crops, and natural environments. Keep reading to discover why these snails are becoming an increasing concern and the potential impact they can have on your surroundings.

Popular in Aquariums, but a Growing Pest

Apple snails are quite popular in aquariums, particularly species like Pomacea bridgesii and Pomacea diffusa. They are favored because, unlike most snails, they do not feed on the plants in the tank.

Their popularity also stems from their unique appearance and size. Certain species can grow as large as 6 inches (15 cm), roughly the size of a baseball or human fist, making them one of the largest freshwater snails globally.

Some people refer to them as mystery snails or spike-topped apple snails. They come in various colors such as brown, albino, yellow, blue, purple, pink, and jade, and sometimes have distinctive banding patterns.

However, while they are popular in the aquarium hobby, some species of apple snails are considered pests in the wild, where they can damage plants and crops. Interestingly, in some regions, apple snails are even consumed and regarded as a delicacy.

Why Are Apple Snails So Invasive?

Apple snails are recognized as one of the 100 Worst Invasive Species worldwide, capable of causing significant damage to local ecosystems by outcompeting native species and harming aquatic environments.

With rising global temperatures, apple snails have been able to spread to new areas with more suitable conditions. They flourish in moist habitats such as ponds, lakes, and swamps, particularly in warmer climates, and have even evolved to endure land travel.

These snails are particularly adapted to tropical regions with alternating dry and wet seasons. They can even travel across land, utilizing a special “lid” (the operculum) to close their shells and prevent dehydration, waiting out dry spells by burying themselves in the mud.

Irresponsible Aquarium Dumping

Apple snails are originally found in areas such as South America, Central America, and the West Indies. However, when they spread outside their native regions, they can create serious environmental problems.

The spread of apple snails in the United States is mainly attributed to the careless disposal of aquarium pets. First reported in Texas in the 1970s, they have since spread to many other states. Louisiana confirmed their presence in 2006.

“The main idea is that they often get a little too large or maybe too abundant, and for whatever reason the aquarium owner decides they don’t want them anymore,” explains Bill Walton, a specialist at the Alabama Cooperative Extension System.

”So they decide to just release them in the waterways.”

From Culinary Ambition to Global Invasion

The apple snail issue is not a recent one.

In the 1980s, a species of apple snail was brought to Taiwan with the intention of starting an escargot industry. The aim was to provide an alternative protein source for farmers, who primarily relied on rice for their income.

However, what seemed like a promising idea quickly turned into a disaster. The snails not only failed to become a popular food item — at least, not among the locals — but they also brought along an unwelcome surprise: a parasite called Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm). This parasite can pose serious health risks to humans if the snails are not cooked properly.