Snails from New Zealand are taking over the world
New Zealand mudsnails are being found all over the world, spreading at a worrying pace.
The pencil point-sized mudsnail from New Zealand is spreading around the world at a rapid pace.
The scourge of mudnails, which have no predators and outcompete normal snails for food, are worrying scientists.
The New Zealand Herald reported that the spread of the snail is likely due to its ability to reproduce (230 offspring per year).
They also don't require males to reproduce, which helps.
Phys Org also pointed out that the tiny snail gets around on the backs of birds, fishing equipment, land animals and even inside fish.
The super snail can tolerate both being underwater and above, surviving and thriving in both said Live Science.
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That said, the snails can only live for 48 hours out of water.
Researchers in Spain who have been studying the species made several recommendations on how to get rid of them.
Firstly, drying fishing equipment for a few days if they travel into different ecosystems is necessary, reported Live Science.
Second, erect physical barriers such as scarecrows for aquatic animals to keep fish species out of infested waters.