Ethnozoological Considerations on the Consumption of Giant African Snails (Achatina spp. and Archachatina spp.) in the Former Provinces of Bandundu and Bas-Congo (DRC)

Kebolo B; Punga K; Makengo K; Longo M

doi:10.36648/2577-0594.9.1.38

Abstract

Ethnozoological Considerations on the Consumption of Giant African Snails (Achatina spp. and Archachatina spp.) in the Former Provinces of Bandundu and Bas-Congo (DRC)

Kebolo B*, Punga K, Makengo K and Longo M

A survey on the consumption and eco ethology of giant African snails was conducted between December 2002 and May 2003 among 606 individuals from 13 tribes in the provinces of Bandundu and Bas-Congo in the Democratic Republic of Congo. According to the results of this survey, the consumption of giant snails in these two provinces is very limited (12%) due to taboos and ancestral beliefs. Nearly half (48%) of consumers are from other provinces, such as Orientale Province. The impact of socio-cultural influences on the dietary habits of these populations regarding giant snails is not significant. However, these animals constitute an excellent source of high-quality protein. Furthermore, they are used as bio indicators of edible mushrooms.01

Published Date: 2025-04-28; Received Date: 2024-09-21