Since 1969, Florida has battled the giant African land snail, smuggled in as exotic pets; the fist-sized invader eats 500 plant species and even the plaster off houses

Giant African land snails, introduced as pets, caused a major Florida crisis. These hermaphroditic snails reproduce prolifically, laying hundreds of eggs. They consume over 500 plant varieties and damage buildings for calcium. The snails also carry a dangerous parasitic nematode, posing health risks. Active quarantines and detector dogs remain necessary for ongoing management.