BONE MEAL AS SOIL TREATMENT FOR CALCIUM SOURCE AND BEDDINGS IN AN INTENSIVE SYSTEM OF GIANT AFRICAN LAND SNAIL PRODUCTION (Archachatina marginata)

ABSTRACT

This research examines the impact of varying bone meal compositions and bedding materials on the growth of snails. Three different bone meal concentrations (0%, 15%, and 30%) were tested, alongside bedding materials (With and Without). The growth parameters assessed included weight, aperture height, aperture width, shell height, shell thickness, shell width, and the number of whorls. The findings revealed that moderate supplementation with bone meal (15%) enhanced shell development, especially in aperture height and shell thickness, whereas a higher concentration of bone meal (30%) resulted in reduced weight gain, possibly due to calcium interference with other nutrients. Although bedding materials had a minor effect on weight and shell height, it significantly influenced other aspects of shell growth. Over the 12-week duration of the study, continuous improvement in shell width and thickness was noted, indicating that snail growth progresses over time. Additionally, interactions between bone meal composition and bedding materials demonstrated that both diet and environmental factors are crucial in optimizing snail growth. This study highlights the importance of finding a balance between calcium intake and the environment to foster optimal growth, particularly in terms of shell development.