Contribute Mystery Snails

Species Confirmation
The goal is to identify the snail species present at various sites, specifically the Chinese mysterysnail (Cipangopaludina chinensis) and Japanese mysterysnail (Cipangopaludina japonica), based on their physical characteristics. This will help clarify the current distribution of each species.

Population Genetics
By studying the genetics of these snail populations, it is hoped to identify patterns in their spread. This information could reveal insights into how these snails are dispersing and their potential vectors.

Parasitic Investigation
The project also examines the types of parasites these snails may carry. In Virginia, parasites have been found in mystery snails, but none have posed any health risks to humans so far. Nonetheless, it is crucial to continue monitoring and studying their susceptibility to various parasites to ensure public health safety.

This project is expanding on previous research:

Fowler A.E., Loonam G.A., and Blakeslee A.M.H. (2022). Population structure and demography of nonindigenous Japanese mystery snails in freshwater habitats of Virginia and Washington, D.C., USA. Aquatic Invasions 17(3): 415–430, https://doi.org/10.3391/ai.2022.17.3.06

Fowler, A.E., Loonam, G.A., and Blakeslee, A.M.H. (2022). Unravelling another mystery: Parasite escape and host-switching vary spatially in non-indigenous populations of Japanese mystery snails. Freshwater Biology 67: 1316-1332. https://doi.org/10.1111/fwb.13919

Identifying snails can be a challenge, the following resources can support accurate identification:

• Chinese mysterysnail Species Profile
• Japanese mysterysnail Species Profile
• Key to Wisconsin Freshwater Snails
• Identification Booklet of Freshwater Invasive Species in Quebec

Aim to collect a minimum of 30 adult snails from each independent water body (i.e. separate and not connected lakes, streams, rivers, etc.), with a maximum of 100 snails per site.

*Please notify us of any populations not currently listed on the distribution map below!

Wrap the snails in paper towels moistened with freshwater from their original environment to maintain humidity during transit. Ensure the towels are damp, not soaking.

*If shipping during July or August, include a cool pack to prevent overheating. Ensure there is a cloth towel or rag between the cool pack and the snails to prevent freezing.

Place the prepared snails in a styrofoam box.

Note: Please include location and collection date information in the box.

Overnight ship the packages to the following address:

Please email Amy Fowler (afowler6@gmu.edu) and CC the GLANSIS team (oar.glerl.glansis@noaa.gov) to notify us of the shipment.

Note: Please remember to include your contact information and any relevant details about the sampled populations in your email.

Questions? Email us HERE