Allopeas gracile (Hutton, 1834): A Pest Terrestrial Snail and Distributional Data from Vietnam
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Abstract
This study aims to supplement and refine data on the pest terrestrial snail Allopeas gracile (Hutton, 1834) (Mollusca: Gastropoda: Achatinidae), providing a scientific basis for its monitoring and management in Vietnam. Between 2013 and October 2025, surveys were conducted across various habitats representing most of the country’s geographical regions. A. gracile, first recorded in Vietnam in 1900, is now widely distributed throughout the territory, with confirmed occurrences in 26 provinces and cities, including the islands of Con Dao, Bach Long Vi, Cat Ba, and Tho Chu. The species spreads effectively through trade and the transportation of agricultural and ornamental plants. Its wide distribution reflects strong adaptability to the humid tropical climate and human-disturbed habitats. The widespread presence of A. gracile may increase competitive interactions with native terrestrial snails for food and shelter, and is associated with adverse effects on agricultural production, particularly vegetables, ornamental plants, fruit trees, and seedlings. In addition, the species may pose potential risks to human and animal health. This study provides detailed descriptions of the shell, soft body, reproductive system, and radula morphology, with the radula structure reported for the first time worldwide for this species.
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