MUÑOZ, Nueva Ecija — The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) is calling on rice growers to shift to integrated pest management (IPM) as cases of golden apple snail damage continue to rise in irrigated areas.
PhilRice said the push for IPM is based on the biology and behavior of the pest, locally called “kuhol,” which has become one of the most destructive pests on young rice crops.
Magiting Garcia, PhilRice senior science research specialist, explained that the snails multiply fast and thrive where water is present.
"Fields with irrigation systems, drainage canals, or any area with standing water are the most vulnerable," Garcia said.
He added that newly transplanted seedlings are the primary target, exposing to risks the early crop stages of rice cultivation.
Beyond feeding on young plants, the pest is also able to endure dry conditions. Garcia said the snails burrow into damp soil during dry months and re-emerge once fields are flooded again.
The reproductive capacity adds to the concern. Based on PhilRice data, one golden apple snail can produce 1,000 to 1,200 eggs in a month. Without control measures, Garcia said, populations can explode and lead to extensive damage across rice areas.
To address this, PhilRice is promoting IPM as the main strategy, combining nonchemical methods before considering pesticides.
Among the recommended practices are proper field preparation, which includes leveling to ensure even water distribution, building drainage canals, and scheduling the draining of paddies to break the pest’s breeding cycle.
Farmers are also advised to do regular handpicking of adult snails and egg clusters.
Other measures include installing mesh or screens at irrigation inlets to block snails from entering fields and using biological controls such as letting ducks graze in paddies before planting season to reduce snail numbers.
Garcia stressed that chemical molluscicides should only be applied when cultural, mechanical, and biological options are not enough to prevent major crop loss.
By adopting IPM, PhilRice said farmers can cut losses, safeguard seedlings, and raise productivity while keeping farming practices sustainable.
The institute added that promoting science-based pest management also supports the government’s goal of strengthening food security and improving rice production nationwide.
