Acid and alkaline phosphatase activity in the Indian apple snail Pila globosa (Swainson) during aestivation

The Indian apple snail Pila globosa (Swainson) experiences an annual cycle of aestivation (summer sleep) as a survival strategy during a hot and dry period to avoid damage from high temperatures and the risk of desiccation. Alterations in the external environment reflect in their haemolymph. Changes in enzyme levels because of any type of stress are immediately reflected in the functional responses of animals. These environmental factors can be simulated in the laboratory so as to study enzymatic alterations occurring in the haemolymph of snails to overcome the adverse features during aestivation. Phosphatase enzymes are important for many biological functions. Acid and alkaline phosphatase activities have been studied in the haemolymph of three months aestivated and active snails. The activity level of enzymes ACP decreased and ALP increased significantly in the haemolymph of aestivated P. globosa when compared to active snails. The significance of these findings is discussed. This investigation explains the adaptability of P. globosa to overcome the adverse features during aestivation. This study also reveals that Pila globosa is a suitable model for studies on aestivation and provides an interesting case of aestivation.