Growth of Biomphalaria glabrata (NMRI strain) and Helisoma trivolvis (Colorado strain) under laboratory conditions

Abstract

Growth of two planorbid snails, Biomphalaria glabrata (NMRI strain) and Helisoma trivolvis (Colorado strain), was studied from 0 to 16 weeks under controlled laboratory conditions. Cultures of both species were maintained in mason jars containing artificial spring water at 23°C and fed boiled Romaine lettuce leaf ad libitum. Growth was studied on an almost weekly basis by determining the shell diameter and blotted wet weight of the snails. The shell diameter and wet weight of Helisoma trivolvis was significantly greater than that of Biomphalaria glabrata (Student's t-test, P < 0.05) from 9 to 16 weeks. Both snails laid viable eggs in culture. The laboratory conditions described herein are satisfactory for maintaining both of these species.