Pink eggs: All you need to know about the Apple Snail

However, what seemed like a good idea turned into a disaster. Not only did the snails fail to become a popular food choice — at least, not for the locals — they also brought with them an unpleasant surprise: a parasite known as Angiostrongylus cantonensis (rat lungworm). This parasite can be dangerous to humans if the snails aren’t cooked properly, posing serious health risks.

To make matters worse, instead of helping local farmers, the snails began to threaten Taiwan’s rice crops and disrupt delicate ecosystems. As if that wasn’t enough, the snails spread rapidly across Asia and made their way to Hawaii, where they caused further damage to local agriculture and the environment.

In the United States, apple snails are considered a serious threat to agriculture, public health, and commerce, prompting calls for national quarantine measures.

The European Union banned the sale and release of all apple snails in 2012 to stop their rapid spread.

Apple Snail Eggs: What to Do If You Find Them

Apple snail eggs can actually look quite beautiful, with their bright, translucent pink or orange clusters that resemble little jewels glimmering in the sunlight. And did you know that each cluster contains between 500 and 700 eggs?

While they might be a stunning sight in your aquarium or pond, it’s important to remember that these colorful clusters can quickly lead to a snail invasion.

If you find apple snail eggs, it’s important to handle them carefully, as these snails can be harmful to aquatic ecosystems. Here’s what to do:

1. Don’t Touch with Bare Hands: Apple snails can carry parasites that may affect both humans and pets. Always wear gloves when handling them.
2. Remove the Eggs: Gently scrape the eggs off surfaces like plants, rocks, or tank walls using a plastic spatula or scraper. A soft brush can help if they’re stuck.
3. Dispose of the Eggs Safely: Put the eggs in a sealed plastic bag, crush them, and throw them in the trash. Don’t flush them, as this could spread them to other water systems.
4. Check for Snails: Inspect the area for any snails that may have hatched and remove them too. Apple snails reproduce quickly, so it’s important to act fast.

What kills Apple snails?

If you’re a gardener, the thought of apple snails invading your garden can be unsettling. One of the best ways to deal with them is by removing their food, water, and shelter — forcing them to relocate.