Limax maximus

a brown slug with black spots near head and stripes on back end — *Limax maximus,* https://idtools.org/tools/1075/images/limax_maximus_MC2.jpg

General Description

Adult specimens are large 150-200 mm in size. Generally, they are a light greyish or grey-brown with darker spots and blotches, although the coloration and exact patterning of the body of this slug species is quite variable. The pneumostome is located posteriorly on the mantle.

Identification

This species is distinctive. It is the only large slug with a leopard spot or stripped color pattern.

Impact

The impact of the species is not known. They are uncommonly reported, and large numbers are not known of.

Management

Slugs can be hand collected and destroyed.

Where to look

These slugs can be found in any moist environment and will generally feed on a wide variety of leafy plants and ferns, and may prey on other slugs. They are not gregarious and are rarely considered pests. They occur across Alaska, south of the Alaska Range.

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