Comparative efficacy of saponin and synthetic molluscicides against Pomacea maculata and phytotoxicity to rice

Black apple snail ( Pomacea maculata ) infestations pose a serious threat to rice cultivation, prompting the need for effective yet environmentally responsible control strategies. Therefore, this study evaluated two saponin-based botanical formulations, i.e., emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and wettable powder (WP) formulations, both applied at graded concentrations, alongside commercial molluscicides niclosamide and fentin acetate, for their effects on snail mortality and rice seed germination. Laboratory bioassays revealed rapid and complete mortality within three hours for all the treatments, with niclosamide achieving a 100% snail mortality within two hours. Glasshouse trials confirmed significant treatment effects across multiple time points, while germination tests indicated that saponin formulations, unlike niclosamide, did not impair seed viability or seedling growth. These results highlight saponin-based molluscicides as potent, seed-safe alternatives to synthetic chemicals, offering promise for sustain able management of P . maculata in rice ecosystems.