Abstract:

In many parts of the world, freshwater molluscs are extensively harvested for food and medicine. Northeast India is one such region where freshwater molluscs are consumed by the tribal and economically impoverished communities. These molluscs are in high demand as they are a cheap source of protein and provide food security, livelihoods and medicine. Although there are studies that show the nutritional and mineral value of snails, data on the details of harvest, the number of species consumed, and traditional knowledge associated with them are lacking. This is the first comprehensive study documenting the diversity of freshwater molluscs sold, quantity, location of harvest, associated traditional knowledge and uses among different tribal communities of Northeast India.