Tropicultura (Jan 2002)
Enquête sur la consommation, la répartition et l'élevage des escargots géants au Togo
Abstract
Investigations on Consumption, Distribution and Breeding of Giants Snails in Togo. A subcontracting convention has been signed between the "Programme National Petit Elevage" and the "Institut National Zootechnique et Vétérinaire " which permitted us to investigate African giant snail consumption, distribution and breeding in Togo. Investigations have lasted six months and were realised in "Régions maritime et des plateaux" both in South Togo. A questionnaire was used to obtain data. Hundred fifty questionnaires were given to sellers during market days, but only fourteen to breeders. The methodology used was based on rapid rural appraisal and direct interrogation. From this investigation we distinguish four species of giant snails (Archachatina archachatina, Archachatina degneri, Achatina achatina, Achatina fulica). For the consumtion about 80% of the samples (sellers and breeders) confirmed that there is no difference in taste between species. Our estimation of giant snails gathered per year is about 30 tons and 80% of the sellers said that they got profit from this activity. For the constraints of giant snails breeding we notice lack of extension, high level of mortalities of young snails, red ant problem and lack of training and information. Giant snail breeding in Togo will be developed if solutions are found to the constraints.
