Video: Live specimen of South America's largest snail found in the Chaco

A live specimen of Megalobulimus oblongus, believed to be the largest snail in South America, has been discovered in Paraguay's Chaco region. The find was reported by the program ‘Paraguay Salvaje’.

A local resident found the snail in the Colonia Neuland area and delivered it to the program's hosts. Thomas Vinke, involved with the program, expressed excitement, noting it was the first live specimen he had seen after years of searching the region. It is presumed that strong northern winds in the preceding days may have dislodged the snail from its usual habitat in treetops, allowing for its rescue.

This species is recognized as the largest snail in both Paraguay and South America. It is commonly called the "pink-mouthed snail" due to the characteristic thick, pink border around its shell opening, according to host Ely Ramos.

Experts caution against confusing this native species with the African giant snail (Achatina fulica). The African giant snail is an invasive exotic species that can pose a significant pest risk. In contrast, the pink-mouthed snail is considered harmless and beneficial to the local ecosystem.

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This is the first time I have seen a live specimen and through this I was able to observe the specimen after years of searching in the area.