EGG SHELLS AS SOIL TREATMENT AND CALCIUM SOURCE AND BEDDINGS IN AN INTENSIVE SYSTEM OF GIANT AFRICAN LAND SNAIL (Archachatina Marginata) FARMING

ABSTRACT

Calcium is a critical nutrient for snail growth, shell development, and overall health, but its availability in conventional soil substrates is often limited. This study evaluated the effectiveness of crushed eggshells as a calcium source and their potential to improve snail bedding materials and snail performance in an intensive rearing system of Giant African Land Snails. Snail shells were collected, cleaned, and crushed into fine particles, which were then incorporated into the soil. The experiment included 3 treatments (0% snail shells (the control), 15% snail shell incorporated into 85% loamy soil and 30% of snail shell incorporated into 70% loamy soil) and replicated four times per treatment. The treated substrates were used as bedding material for juvenile GALS over a 12-week period. Parameters evaluated were snails’ weights, shell thickness, aperture height and aperture length, shell height, weight and thickness, freshness and number of whorls, taken on a weekly basis. The data collected was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using GENSTAT 12th edition and means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The inclusion of eggshells in the diet significantly enhances growth parameters such as weight, aperture dimensions, and shell morphology. The 30% eggshell composition combined with bedding provided the optimal conditions for snail growth, highlighting the importance of calcium availability and a stable microenvironment in intensive snail farming systems.