Comparative Study of Cuban Slugs (Veronicella cubensis) Suppression Using Grazing Ducks, Neem (Azadirachia indica) Extract and Chemical Baits in the CNMI

• 2008 annual report
• 2009 annual report

The Cuban slug (Veronicella cubensis) has recently risen in prominence as an agricultural, ornamental and nuisance pest on the island of Rota, CNMI. This study examines and demonstrates the most effective suppressing practice for Cuban slug during testing of three available management practices in field demonstrations. Results showed that three practices at weekly observations: Ducks Feeding on Cuban Slug, Neem (Azadirachta indica) Extract and Slug Pellets (Deadline M-Ps) suppressed the population of Cuban slug. Observations indicated that these practices should be effective at controlling Cuban slug.

Introduction

The agricultural industry on Rota, an island within the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is vulnerable to slugs and snails. Slugs are causing severe crop losses and a false image of the safety of vegetables grown. The high cost of current control measures, such as baiting, is prohibitive, so this Professional + Producer project explored three cost-effective and sustainable control methods for slugs in vegetable crops. The first producer used grazing ducks to eat the Cuban Slugs. The ducks also cleared weeds and fertilized the ground. The second producer planted rows of Neem trees to use as windbreaks and for their pesticide properties. These trees are also known for their germicidal and medicinal purposes. The third producer set up modified baiting traps on his farm that are safe and cost effective. This project has developed sustainable practices for Rota’s agriculture industry. Increased harvest yields led to decreased imports. Risks from harmful pesticides are reduced.

This project aimed to explore and demonstrate the cost effective, environmentally-friendly and sustainable practices for slug and pest control in vegetable production. Millions of Cuban slugs had infested Rota, and the hardest hit area was Sabana area where the pests feasted on vegetable crops even before they could bloom. The slugs could wipe out an entire seedlings plot overnight. This discouraged the farmers so badly that no one wanted to till the land and plant vegetables anymore.