Occurrence of the Common Amber Snail Succinea Putris (L.) (Gastropoda: Styllomatophora) on Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia Japonica [Houtt.] Ronse Decraene) in Slovenia - Possible Weed Biocontrol Agent?

Abstract

Japanese knotweed, Fallopia japonica is one of the most troublesome invasive alien plant in Europe and North America. In 2012 we started monitoring for possible indigenous natural enemies of Japanese knotweed in Slovenia. In Zgornji Log, near Litija (46°4′38.09″N, 14°49′31.65″E; 245 m) on the river Sava, we recorded several plants of F. japonica damaged by the common amber snail Succinea putris. In this paper we discuss the possibility of the biological control of Japanese knotweed with S. putris.