2024/12/14 by Phạm Hồng Hiển, Ngo Van Dung, Ha Thi Thoa +4 · 1 voice · 1 citation
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · #Mollusks and Parasites Studies
paper · doi:10.1080/13235818.2024.2433405
openalex publication_date 2024/12/14 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/06/15
This study investigates the diversity of terrestrial molluscs associated with dragon fruit (Selenicereus spp.) cultivation in southern Vietnam, focusing on the primary pest, Acusta tourannensis. Field surveys in Binh Thuan and Tien Giang provinces identified eight pest species, including A. tourannensis and Lissachatina fulica, which were particularly prevalent. Morphological and biological assessment of A. tourannensis revealed its remarkable reproductive capacity, producing up to 389 eggs per pair during its short lifespan of approximately 45.7 days. Optimal growth and development were achieved when feeding A. tourannensis a combination of chicken feed and dragon fruit branches. The snail exhibited nocturnal activity patterns and a strong preference for high soil humidity. Greenhouse experiments confirmed the significant influence of soil moisture on snail density, with peaks observed following rainfall. Field observations revealed seasonal peaks in A. tourannensis populations on dragon fruit branches and fruits. These findings underscore the importance of understanding terrestrial mollusc diversity and the ecological impact of A. tourannensis on dragon fruit orchards to develop effective pest management strategies.