Slugs and snails are often grouped together because they are both small slimy creatures that move slowly. However slugs and snails are not the same.
The main difference between slugs and snails is that slugs do not have a shell while snails do. This means that slugs are more vulnerable to predators and the elements and they require moisture to survive. Slugs also have shorter lifespans than snails.
In terms of appearance slugs are usually brown or grey and they have a smooth slimy skin. Snails are usually a bit larger than slugs and they can come in a variety of colors including white brown and yellow. Both slugs and snails have long slender bodies and two pairs of antennae.
Slugs and snails are both hermaphrodites meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. They can reproduce without a mate but they usually do mate in order to produce healthier offspring.
Slugs and snails are found in damp environments such as gardens forests and caves. They are common pests in gardens as they eat a variety of plants. Snails are also sometimes kept as pets.
While slugs and snails may seem similar there are a few key differences between these two creatures.
What is the difference between slugs and snails?
Slugs and snails are both gastropods however slugs lack a shell.
Why do slugs and snails leave slime trails?
Slugs and snails leave slime trails in order to move more easily and to keep their skin moist.
What do slugs and snails eat?
Slugs and snails are both herbivores and eat mostly leaves flowers and vegetables.
How do slugs and snails reproduce?
Both slugs and snails are hermaphrodites meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs.
They usually reproduce by crossing over with another slug or snail although they are also capable of reproducing by themselves.
Where do slugs and snails live?
Slugs and snails can be found in gardens forests and parks all over the world.
What is the lifespan of a slug or snail?
Most slugs and snails live for 1-2 years although some species can live up to 6 years.
Do slugs and snails carry diseases?
Slugs and snails can carry diseases parasites and even viruses.
They can transmit these diseases to humans and animals if they come into contact with them.
How do slugs and snails move?
Slugs and snails move by contracting their muscles and pushing themselves forward with their slime.
What is the biggest slug or snail in the world?
The biggest slug or snail in the world is the giant African snail which can grow up to 12 inches long and 5 inches wide.
What is the smallest slug or snail in the world?
The smallest slug or snail in the world is the pygmy snail which is only 1-2 mm long.
Do all slugs and snails have shells?
No not all slugs and snails have shells.
Slugs have no shell and some snail species have a very small or internal shell.
Do slugs and snails feel pain?
It is not known for sure whether or not slugs and snails feel pain.
They do have nerves and a primitive brain but it is not known if they are capable of experiencing pain.
What is the purpose of a slug or snail’s shell?
A snail’s shell is used for protection from predators and the environment.
How do slugs and snails breathe?
Slugs and snails breathe through holes in their sides called pneumostomes.
What do slugs and snails turn into?
When slugs and snails die they decompose and turn into soil.
