Snail Infestation in Idukki’s Cardamom Plantations

Context

The cardamom-growing regions of Idukki district in Kerala have recently witnessed a significant infestation of small snails, which are causing extensive damage to cardamom crops.

About

Green cardamom, often called the "Queen of Spices," is one of the world’s most valuable spices, ranking just after saffron and vanilla.
It belongs to the Zingiberaceae
It is a high-value cash crop and a major component of India’s spice exports.
The seeds from Elettaria cardamomumare used to make the commercial green cardamom spice, widely used in cooking, sweets, and beverages.
As a result, these discoveries hold economic significance as they may lead to better
It is one of the three most economically important species in the ginger family.
It is native to the evergreen rain forests of Western Ghats in South India.
Major Cardamom producing Indian states: Kerala, Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Karnataka.
Other major cardamom producing countries: Gautemala, Srilanka, Thailand and Cambodia.
Soil and climate: Thick shady areas with loamy soil are ideal for cultivating cardamom. This crop can be grown at an elevation from 600 to 1500 m. It is grown in forest loamy soils which are usually acidic in nature with a pH range of 5.0 – 6.5
Season: June – December is found to be optimum.

About Snail Attack

Snail infestations are typically linked with increased moisture. The snails have become active earlier than usual — infestation that was noticed in October last year began in early May this year.
Snails are nocturnal, becoming active after 7 p.m.
They feed on the soft, developing parts of the cardamom plant — especially flowers and panicles.
Response: Many farmers are using metaldehyde pellets (a chemical molluscicide) to control snails.