Slug

Scientific Name: Gastropoda (Class level identification)

Order & Family: Order: Stylommatophora; Families vary (e.g., Limacidae, Agriolimacidae)

Size: 1 cm to 25 cm depending on the species

Slug

Natural Habitat

Damp, shaded areas, leaf litter, gardens, and under rocks or logs

Diet & Feeding

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on leaves, mushrooms, and decaying organic matter; some species are predatory

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and moisture-dependent; they move via muscular contractions of their foot and leave a protective mucus trail

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter; however, they can be agricultural pests and may carry parasites like lungworm if ingested by pets.

Identified on: 1/14/2026