Slug

Scientific Name: Gastropoda (order level)

Order & Family: Order: Stylommatophora; Family: Various (commonly Limacidae or Agriolimacidae)

Size: Typically 1 to 15 cm depending on species

Slug

Natural Habitat

Moist, damp environments including gardens, forests, and under rocks or logs

Diet & Feeding

Mostly herbivorous, feeding on leaves, stems, and decaying organic matter; some species are omnivorous

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal activity to avoid desiccation; leaves a characteristic mucus slime trail; hermaphroditic reproduction

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Decomposers that enrich soil. Risks: Significant garden pests; some species can carry parasites like rat lungworm if ingested by pets or humans

Identified on: 5/18/2026