20 



The second major factor believed responsible for the decline in 

 the snail population was the severe freeze during January, 1977. This 

 freeze resulted in crop losses, and up to 95" defoliation of trees. It 

 is possible that the snail harborages were not sufficient to protect 

 the snail colonies. 



A combination of the aforementioned factors is believed to have 

 accounted for this radical population reduction. Within two years, a 

 thriving snail culture was reduced to near extinction. This reduction 

 was accomplished without the use of any pesticide sprays. It simply 

 reflects the fragile balance needed to maintain a snail culture. 



Observations made during the summer following the winter popula- 

 tion counts of 1977 reflected the population decline. A total of eleven 

 snails were located within the entire grove area. Further population 

 reductions were possible, due to an extremely dry spring. Unless cul- 

 tural practices conducive to snail growth are resumed, this grove will 

 no longer harbor a viable snail culture. 



This survey indicates that the cultural practices once used to 

 help maintain a snail culture played an important role. These practices, 

 however, are now in conflict with modern techniques. Ground cover is no 

 longer used because of water loss and nutritional consumption by the 

 grasses. Dead wood, once used by the snail for overwintering, now is 

 removed and burned. Dense tree canopy is reduced by row pruning to 

 allow for easier picking and grove maintenance. All of these techniques, 

 once common in citriculture and important to snail survival, are no 

 longer practiced. 



