Slug (likely a common garden slug)

Scientific Name: Gastropoda (Class level identification, likely Arionidae or Limacidae family depending on species)

Order & Family: Order: Stylommatophora, Family: Likely Arionidae (Roundback slugs) or Limacidae

Size: Varies significantly by species; common garden slugs range from 1 to 15 cm in length.

Slug (likely a common garden slug)

Natural Habitat

Damp environments, gardens, compost piles, under rocks or logs, and in soil; they require moisture to prevent desiccation.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous and detritivorous; they feed on living plant leaves (often damaging garden crops), decaying organic matter, fungi, and sometimes other slugs.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal activity to avoid drying out in the sun; they leave slime trails to facilitate movement; they can retract their bodies when threatened.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major agricultural and garden pest that eats seedlings and leaves; can carry parasites like rat lungworm. Benefits: Important for decomposition and breaking down organic matter in the ecosystem.

Identified on: 3/4/2026