THE VARIED ROLES OF SNAILS - National Universities Commission

(f) The management of the snail farm.
HOUSING
Snails can be housed in many types of containers, but all
must be able to withstand the warm humid conditions that
are necessary. The common ones include old tyres, old
basins / clay water pots, wooden or bamboo boxes and dug
holes. An aquarium tank or plastic pet cage would make a
suitable home. One sized 40cm x 25cm would house an
adult snail or several smaller specimens. An escape proof
top is necessary and preferably one that allows for some
ventilation. A glass or Perspex, slightly raised on plasticine
will often suffice. A layer of soil should be provided for the
snail to burrow into. A light misting is necessary, as high
humidity may be an essential requirement. Snails should be
able to approach water, usually provided in a water dish.
This they may drink. The environment should also contain
other surfaces over which the snails can move. They need
softish irregular surfaces. Hollows of tyres can be used as
convenient hides. A lump of chalk or limestone is an
essential furnishing of the pens. Snails have a huge
requirement for calcium to build up this mineral
requirement.
Large scale farming involves the use of large cages and
fenced pens, Polyethylene tubes and wide expanse of lands.
Most snail farms may require mild climate, with high
humidity and a wide range of temperatures.
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