Spatial distribution and seasonal variation of Limicolaria spp. infesting banana plantations in South West, Cameroon

This study was carried out as a prelude to elucidate a management plan that could limit residues in fruits and the environment without compromising quality. In order to meet our objectives, snails were randomly sampled from banana growth stages, different plant parts, residues, polythene bag-covered and uncovered banana bunches, and at different distances from the field edges. To assess seasonality of snail infestations, snails were sampled from the pre-flowering growth stage (January to September, 2012). The egg-laying and aestivating behaviours of snails were assessed by counting them from residues, weeds and soil. We recorded a higher number of snails on growth stages and plant parts in the rainy season compared to the dry season. The number of snails were significantly higher in the pre-flowering growth stages in the wet season (72.1 snails/plant) compared to those from the same stage in the dry season (0.88 snails/plant) (p=0.05). Although the highest number of snails were recorded on leaves in both seasons compared to  other plants parts, the numbers were significantly higher on leaves during the rainy season  compared to those in the dry season (p=0.05). Residues were the most preferred egg-laying and aestivating sites for snails while leaves on the ground haboured the highest number of snails in both seasons. We therefore concluded that focus on monitoring and management of the snails should be intensified during the rainy season with special attention on pre-flowered plants, uncovered bunches, and residues.