Haemolymph Biochemical Parameters of the African Giant Snail ( Achatina achatina ) and the Big Black Snail ( Achachatina marginata )

A comparative analysis of the biochemical profiles of the haemolymph of 50 each of apparently normal captive African giant snail, (Achatina achatina) and the big black snail, (Achachatina marginata) was carried out. The mean protein (total protein, albumin, globulin and albumin:globulin ratio) levels, excretory products (urea and creatinine), enzymes, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT and aspartate aminitransferase (AST), and electrolytes (Na+, K+, Ca++ and HCO3) levels were similar (P>0.05) in both wild snail species. Chloride ions (CT) were not detected in the haemolymphs of the two snail species, a very important clue to their salt intolerance in African traditional beliefs. There were marked differences in the levels of haemolymph lipids and trace elements of the two species of snails. The cholesterol and triglyceride levels were lower (P Keyword: Snails, Achatina achatina, Achachatina marginata, haemolymph biochemistry, management Trop. Vet. Vol. 21 (2) 43-48 (2003)