Agriculture and You

 HELICICULTURE
   The rearing of snail is known as Heliciculture. Snail rearing is a business opportunity which is sometimes overlooked because most people feel it can never be a source of income or wealth. Snail farming in Nigeria requires small capital compared to other animal husbandry line poultry,fishery etc.
  Snail farming is an an just gaining its recognition in animal science and research has shown that there are a lot of nutritional benefits deprived from snail meat. Snail meat has a protein content of about 16-18% and has a low fat content and low cholesterol level which makes snail meat a good antidote for vascular diseases such as cardiac arrest, hypertension and stroke.
  It would interest you to know that every part of snail has its own unique functions. While snail meat is edible and nutritious, the snail shell can be used for traditional medicine, ornament or beads and for local tools. Snail eggs are consumed by most people and the snail slime can be used for traditional medicine, treatment of burns and for cosmetics.
    Snail rearing, as it is, does not involve some much technicality, just the necessary basic things which includes: attention, care, feeding, housing and good management.
  Feeding your snail is really not costly. This is because snail feeds on fruits, sweet potatoes, cassava tubers, soya beans, maize chaff, palm kernel cake, fish meal, tomatoes, cocoyam, pawpaw fruits, cucumber and even household wastes such as: solid paper, bread, cooked rice, eba, etc.
  Snails require a well ventilated and spacious housing. The housing must also be constructed such that it is able to protect the snail against predators and insect infestation. You can prevent ants or insects by digging some trenches around the underneath or foundation of the fence and pour some engine oil on it. This will help in preventing the gathering of ants or insects.
  Good management is essential for snail farming. Just because snails do not fall sick as much or that they are easy to manage dies not mean you should not take care of your snails. Know when to provide food to your snails. Feed your snails regularly morning and night with drinking water. It is important to note that snails Williams not eat if the elevator is too dry, therefore always try to make the environment conducive by wetting and covering the floor with dry crop residues such as banana, plantain or cocoa leaves for the purpose of retaining soil moisture and providing natural environment for the snails.
  Do not give treated or chlorinated water to snails, rather provide fresh, clean untreated water. Always try to frequently clean the feed and water dishes.
    In conclusion, you have learnt that snail farming in Nigeria has a lot of advantage which ranges from low cost to easy management and profitability. I would like you to know that the secret of making millions in any business is to master your game, dream big, try to differentiate yourself from competitors and work smart.