[Effects of a sublethal concentration of molluscacide (CuCl2) on the reproductive activity and movements of the molluscan host Lymnaea truncatula Müller].

The discharge of a 1 mg/l cupric chloride solution in the habitats of Lymnaea truncatula disturbed the reproductive activity and the movements of survivors. The fast emergence of the host snails led to colonization and egg deposit on the wet emerged area. The number of egg masses per snail and the daily covered distance were reduced. The shell size of snails hatched from egg masses was lower than control at the end of the experiment. These perturbations were maximum after the discharge and gradually disappeared. The significance of these results is discussed in relation with the combined and alternate control of L truncatula by chemical and biological means.