Reproductive Strategies and Embryonic Development of Monacha cartusiana Insights into Fertility and Growth Patterns With Some Medical Importance Of Human

Abstract

Introduction: Snail mucus of Monacha cartusiana, a terrestrial snail with agricultural and medical significance, forms an adhesive and protective layer on the internal lining of the gastrointestinal tract, so prevents the ulcerative effects of acid-base digestive enzymes. This study discusses its reproductive strategy and embryonic development. Monacha cartusiana has been identified as an intermediate host for parasites that are aetiological agents of human and veterinary diseases, besides being an important agricultural pest. The objectives are to elucidate fertility patterns, staged embryonic development, and the linkage between adult shell length and reproductive output. Methods: On farms in Al-Hussainiya, Karbala, Iraq, field- observations indicated that the reproductive period commenced herein above local climatology as early as October 2023. Fecundity was investigated in relation to adult shell length after calculating the number of eggs deposited during one spawn season. Embryonic development was observed using a non-invasive light-based method that enabled embryonic growth to be tracked within the eggshell. Embryogenesis was divided into five developmental stages during nine days, with hatching on the tenth day. The gonadal structure and maturity were assessed by histological cross sections of hermaphroditic gonads. Results: There was a good correlation between shell length and fecundity. The maximum fecundity (39 eggs) was observed in an adult snail, which had a shell length of 16.2 mm, whereas the minimum fecundity (11 eggs) was recorded in snails with spawning occurred at 9.1 mm shell length. Histology revealed that a longer shell was related to more advanced gonad development and greater fecundity. Conclusion: Shell length is a reliable indicator of sexual maturity and reproductive potential in Monacha cartusiana. Understanding the reproductive biology and population dynamics of this snail is essential for effective agricultural pest management, reducing the risk of parasite transmission, and supporting public and environmental health. These bear underscores of the importance of incorporating snail-targeted control strategies, alongside ongoing preventive chemotherapy to reduce diseases.