Banana Slugs – Each

The banana slug (Ariolimax) is a genus of mollusk, although when used in the context of a species banana slug usually refers to the Pacific banana slug (Ariolimax columbianus). Banana slugs are usually bright yellow (somewhat resembling a banana) although they may also be green, brown, or white. The Pacific banana slug is the second-largest species of slug in the world, growing up to 25cm (9.8 inches) long (the largest slug is Limax cinereoniger of Europe, which can reach 30 cm (12 inches) in length). It is native to the forest floors along the Pacific Coast of North America.

Banana slugs are decomposers. They process leaves, animal droppings, and dead plant material, and then recycle them into soil. They seem to have a fondness for mushrooms, and they spread seeds and spores when they eat. They move relatively slowly since banana slugs, like all slugs, have only one muscular foot.

Slugs use two pairs of tentacles, termed eye-stalks, to sense their environment. The larger pair is used to detect light or movement. The second pair is used to detect pheromones. The tentacles can retract and extend themselves to avoid damage from leaves and twigs.

Wild caught in Northern CA. – See Care Sheet