FIRST REPORT OF Deroceras sp. (GASTROPODA, PULMONATA, AGRIOLIMACIDAE) AS PEST OF AGRICULTURAL CROPS IN KASHMIR VALLEY (INDIA)

Deroceras sp. (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Agriolimacidae) is being reported for first time from Kashmir Valley (India). It was found a pest of agriculturally important crops like beans, brassicas (Kale, kohlrabi), potato, radish, sugar beet etc. and caused minor to moderate, but significant damage of these agriculturally important crops. Preliminary investigation reveals that this species might be Deroceras laeve (Muller 1774) that is already widely distributed in nearby countries like Butan, China, Pakistan, and Nepal. It suggests that this slug might have been in this part of the world for some time. Surveys and taxonomic studies are required to be conducted to confirm its species. Moreover, further investigation will reveal its distribution and pest status in other parts of Jammu and Kashmir.