• Worldwide distribution. Common in Pacific island countries.
• Shells vary, 12-16 mm diam, whitish to light brown, with or without narrow brown bands between whorls, and outward curved white lip. Hermaphrodite, capable of self-fertilization. Eggs below soil surface, hatchlings after 15 days, adults after 6 months.
• Damage direct: many crops (vegetables, trees, ornamentals) of economic importance eaten; indirect, faeces may contain rat lung worm.
• Spread on 'foot' or long distances via international plant trade.
• Biosecurity: commonly found on freight containers (hence the name 'tramp').
• Natural enemies: predatory snails and flatworms should NOT be introduced without environmental impact studies. These generalists will annihilate local snails. Use Indian runner ducks.
• Cultural control: bare earth or sand around plots; collect snails; use beer traps to attract snails.
• Chemical control: Note metaldehyde NOT encouraged: toxic to livestock, pets and humans; use baits with iron phosphate, sodium ferric EDTA - effective and safer.

Asian tramp snail

Bradybaena similaris; previously, Helix similaris.