First report of the invasive snail Pomacea canaliculata in Kenya

Abstract Following reports of an invasive snail causing crop damage in the expansive Mwea irrigation scheme Kenya, samples snails and associated egg masses were collected sent to CABI laboratories UK for molecular identification. DNA barcoding analyses using cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene gave preliminary identification as Pomacea canaliculata , widely considered have potential be one most invertebrates waterways systems worldwide which is already issues throughout much south-east Asia. To best our knowledge, this first documented record P. confirmed established population continental Africa. This timely shows benefit need robust species identifications: even a curated sequence database such that provided by Barcoding Life Data system may require additional checks on veracity underlying identifications. We found mass tested identical barcode adult snails, allowing identifications made more rapidly. Part nuclear elongation factor 1 alpha was sequenced confirm not / maculata interspecies hybrid. Given impact Asia, there assessment risk Africa, implementation appropriate response Kenya elsewhere manage new threat agriculture environment.