OYSTER SHELL AS SOIL TREATMENT FOR CALCIUM SOURCE IN AN INTENSIVE SYSTEM OF GIANT AFRICAN LAND SNAILS (Archachatina marginata) PRODUCTION

ABSTRACT

Giant African Land Snails (Archachatina marginata) possess high nutritional value and minimal environmental impact, making them a promising source of animal protein. However, calcium deficiencies are prevalent in intensive Giant African Land Snail production, affecting both growth and shell quality. This study investigates the effects of soil treatment with oyster shells as a calcium source on the growth performance and shell quality of Giant African Land Snails raised in an intensive system at the University of Benin, Nigeria.Through a series of controlled experiments, we will assess the effects of oyster shell supplementation on growth performance, shell quality, and overall health parameters of Giant African Land Snails reared in intensive conditions. This study will include, treatments consisting of varying levels of oyster shell inclusion in the soil where the snails live.The findings of this study are expected to contribute valuable insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of utilizing oyster shells as a calcium supplement to enhance the growth and shell quality of Giant African Land Snails in intensive farming systems, thereby informing sustainable practices for the growing snail farming industry.