The Slugs Of Florida

Florida has a depauperate slug fauna, having only 3 native species which belong to 3 different families. Eleven species of exotic slugs have been intercepted by USDA and DPI quarantine inspectors, but only one is known to be established. Some of these, such as the gray garden slug (Deroceras reticulatum Müller), spotted garden slug (Limax maximus L.), and tawny garden slug (Limax flavus L.), are very destructive garden and greenhouse pests. Therefore, constant vigilance is needed to prevent their establishment. Some veronicellid slugs are becoming more widely distributed (Dtmdee, 1977). The Brazilian Veronicella ameghini (Gambetta) has been found at several Florida localities (Dundee, 1974). This velvety black slug should be looked for under boards and debris in vacant lots and cemeteries. Slugs are not commonly seen or collected because they are active mostly at night and inconspicuous during the day. In Spanish they are called “babosas” from the verb “babear” (to drool), because of the copious amount of mucus they secrete. Slugs should be preserved in 75% isopropyl alcohol. It is best to drown them in water overnight in a covered container without air pockets so the bodies will be extended. After drowning they should be washed under running water to remove excess mucus before placing in preservative. Notes on the color of the mucus secreted by the living slug would be helpful in identification.