Some types of snails are cultivated in the conditions of farms, as this kind of business has become an industry. Helix Pomatia’s conditions for cultivation are the most approached to natural ones. However, there are other types of snails, the cultivation of which gains huge popularity.
Helix Aspersa Maxima or Big grape snail They belong to the types of terrestrial mollusks. Some experts state that their taste preferences are peculiar, although they prefer the same diet as other snails.
The major differences between grape and grey snails:
- The adult species reaches 25 grams, while pomatia can reach up to 50 grams;
- Shell diameter can become 40 mm, and 55 mm in the grape snails consequently;
- they have different body color. Maxima’s color of body and stripes is grey, while the grape snail are beige shell without stripes;
- they have different taste preferences, which depend on the territory of habitat.
Helix Aspersa Muller or Small grey snail.
- Their weight is 10 grams,
- Shell diameter is 25 millimeters,
- Body color is grey, while the shell has spots.
These mollusks were cultivated several centuries ago, although people were not aware of their useful characteristics. They became popular in the territory of France. French cultivators fed them with aromatic herbs in order to make their meat particularly gentle. Temperature and climate conditions for their maintenance and breeding are close to the conditions of our latitudes. So, several ways to grow Muller and Maxima exist today:
- soil,
- greenhouse.
Taking into account that these types of snails are congeners of grape clam, they have similar conditions for living. They prefer heat, moderate humidity; however, it is necessary to remember that they are sensitive to sun. Although, they were brought from Africa, they are fairly thermophilic, but are able to quickly adapt to our climatic conditions. In natural conditions, Helix Aspersa are easily found in the Mediterranean continents, where the climate is warm.
Their breeding is money-making from a commercial position, because these snails can be cultivated as soon as they are six months. This period is optimal for reaching the most proper size for sale and use. These snails lay more eggs than grape ones: 80 to 180 pieces compared to 50-80.
The demand for them is high. In the enclosure conditions, breeding of helix needs protection of the territory from predators, with the help of equipment with wooden pallets. The best temperature for breeding is 23-25 degrees Celsius. Cold seasons are the period of hibernation. So, successful breeding is effective in greenhouse conditions.
It continuously maintains the most comfortable temperature, level of humidity, defense from sun exposure and pests, hygiene and abundant feeding. Isolation method is the most appropriate for breeding of offspring or spawn. In other words, several pairs of snails are combined in for reproduction. As soon as they laid eggs, they are transported to incubator.
Many companies, engaged in snails cultivation, construct particular premises. They hire chefs work, creating a finished product from snail meat. These products have higher price, compared to live mollusks. These products are immediately delivered to stores or restaurants. This business can become profitable.