What is a major drawback of using snails as bioagents, particularly noted in Florida?

Using snails as bioagents, particularly in Florida, presents a significant drawback due to the inherent propagation risks associated with their use. When introduced into an ecosystem for the purpose of controlling aquatic weeds, snails have the capability of reproducing rapidly, which can lead to overpopulation or unintended ecological consequences. This can disrupt the balance of the local ecosystem, as the snails may not only fail to control the target weed species effectively but can also disrupt other organisms within the habitat. Such propagation risks highlight the importance of carefully assessing both the ecological impact and the long-term management strategies required when deploying any biological control agent. This understanding is crucial for ensuring responsible ecological practices in managing invasive aquatic species.