Behavioural study of the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) in a Tropical Lake, Chenderoh Reservoir, Malaysia

Abstract

AbstractA survey on the egg deposition behaviour of the golden apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata) was conducted at Chenderoh Reservoir in Malaysia. The distribution of P. canaliculata and medium preferences for egg deposition in the lake were recorded. The egg deposition mediums included aquatic plants, rocks and boats and other artificial structures. The number of egg clusters on the aquatic plants was counted to examine the preferred plant species for egg deposition, being collected thereafter for hatching test. This study findings indicated P. canaliculata laid eggs on the stems and leaves of aquatic plants, with a 43% occurrence compared to the other hard medium surfaces such as boats, rocks, fish cages and emerged bamboo piles, with a 14% occurrence recorded for each medium. A total of 65% of the eggs were deposited on the stems, and 35% on the leaves, of the aquatic plants. Phragmites australis (41%) of the Poaceae family was the most preferred plant for egg deposition, whereas the least preferred plant for egg deposition was Neptunia oleracea (3%) of the Fabaceae family. There was no significant difference (p < 0.5) in the percentage of hatched egg between the submersed and nonsubmersed hatching tests. The incubation period of the egg to hatch period was approximately 14 days upon the hardening of the calcium shell. In addition, about 60% of the eggs hatched, even though the eggs were immersed in the water. As the invasive P. canaliculata is considered to be in the top 100 of the “World Most Invasive Alien Species,” these types of behavioural studies are needed to better understand and control the snail, reducing the economic loss, especially in the agriculture sector, as well as facilitating a healthier lake environment.