Achatina

/ˌækəˈtaɪnə/ noun

Definition

A genus of large land snails native to Africa, including the giant African land snail, known for being invasive pests in many parts of the world.

Etymology

From the scientific naming convention, possibly derived from agate (achates) due to the snail's shell patterns, though the exact etymology is uncertain. It's a Latinized genus name.

Kelly Says

Giant African land snails from the Achatina genus can grow to the size of a human fist and have become ecological disasters on islands like Hawaii and Florida—one snail can produce hundreds of babies without needing a mate.

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