Watch CBS News

Potentially Harmful Snail Found In Port Of Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- An alarming first for the Port of Baltimore.

The USDA confirms a pest known as the succinea costaricana was discovered March 27 on the exterior of a shipping container from Guatemala.

Mostly found in Central America, this air-breathing land snail poses a potential threat to the ornamental plant industry.

Some species are agricultural pests, causing damage to cucumber, tomato, lettuce, carnations and tulips.

That shipping container is now under inspection.

If no further pests are found, the cargo may be released to the importer.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.