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Leopard Slug

Limax maximus

INDEX

fauna

Species Description

The mating habits of Limax maximus are considered unusual among slugs: the hermaphrodite slugs court, usually for hours, by circling and licking each other. After this, the slugs will climb into a tree or other high area and then, entwined together, lower themselves on a thick string of mucus, evert their white translucent mating organs (penises) from their gonopores (openings on the right side of the head), entwine these organs, and exchange sperm. Both participants will later lay hundreds of eggs.

Species Details

FAMILY

Limacidae

GENUS

Limacidae

SIZE

10-20 cm

LIFE SPAN

up to 3 years

HEMISPHERE

Both

ECOSYSTEM

The slug is almost always found near human habitation — usually in lawns, gardens, cellars or in other damp areas. This species is not gregarious. It frequents gardens, damp and shady hedgerows and woods, hiding during the day beneath stones, under fallen trees, or other obscure and damp places. It does however exhibit a decided preference for the vicinity of human habitations, and readily takes up its abode in damp cellars or outbuildings.

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