Clusters of small, bright pink eggs in your garden are more than an oddity—they’re a sign of the invasive apple snail, a species wreaking havoc on ecosystems worldwide. Native to South America, these freshwater mollusks thrive in ponds, lakes, and swamps, spreading rapidly in warm climates.
### A Prolific Pest
Apple snails lay clusters of 400–600 pink or orange eggs, each 2–3 mm in diameter. Their prolific breeding and adaptability earn them a spot among the top 100 invasive species. Known for consuming aquatic plants and young crops, they devastate rice fields in Asia and disrupt ecosystems in Europe and North America.
### Tell-Tale Signs
The snails’ bright eggs appear on leaves or elevated surfaces near water. These toxic eggs deter predators and signal an impending invasion. Once hatched, the snails quickly spread, overwhelming local environments and reducing biodiversity.
### Widespread Damage
Apple snails have spread to Florida, Texas, and California in the U.S., as well as Europe and Asia. They deplete aquatic plants vital to ecosystems, harming water quality and fish habitats, while causing severe financial losses in agriculture.
### Fighting Back
Control measures include reporting sightings, manual egg removal, bans on pet trade, and awareness campaigns. Early action is key—swiftly removing eggs can protect your garden and local ecosystems.
**Conclusion:** Stay vigilant. Spotting and addressing apple snail eggs can help curb this invasive threat and safeguard biodiversity.