Slug
Scientific Name: Gastropoda (Class level, typically refers to terrestrial species like the families Limacidae or Arionidae)
Order & Family: Order: Stylommatophora; Families include Limacidae (keelback slugs) and Arionidae (roundback slugs)
Size: Varies significantly by species, generally ranging from 1 to 15 cm long.
Natural Habitat
Found in moist, shaded environments such as gardens, under rocks, in leaf litter, and occasionally indoors in damp areas like basements or bathrooms.
Diet & Feeding
Herbivorous and detritivorous; they feed on living plant tissue (leaves, fruits, vegetables), decaying organic matter, and fungi.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal creatures that seek moisture to prevent desiccation. They leave slime trails to facilitate movement and protect their bodies. They are hermaphroditic (possess both male and female reproductive organs).
Risks & Benefits
Benefits include breaking down organic debris and recycling nutrients into the soil. Risks include significant damage to garden plants and crops; potential vector for parasites (e.g., rat lungworm) if handled or ingested raw.
Identified on: 2/9/2026