A slug is not a snail but it is a close relative. Both slugs and snails are gastropods which means they have a foot (or locomotive apparatus) that they use to move around. Both slugs and snails also have a slimy protective coating that helps them move and stay moist. The main difference between slugs and snails is that slugs do not have a shell.
Snails are believed to have evolved from ancestral gastropods with shells. Over time some snail species lost their shells likely due to changes in their environment or diet. These shell-less gastropods are what we now know as slugs.
Slugs are found all over the world in a variety of habitats from forests to gardens. In fact there are over 43000 species of slugs and snails! Some species of slugs can even glow in the dark.
While slugs and snails may look very different they are actually quite similar. Both are hermaphrodites meaning they have both male and female reproductive organs. This means that each slug can mate with any other slug.
During mating two slugs exchange sperm. Each slug then produces a batch of eggs which they typically lay in the soil. The eggs hatch and young slugs known as larvae emerge. Larvae look very different from adult slugs. They are small and have a hard outer shell. Over time the larvae will molt (or shed their shell) and emerge as an adult slug.
Slugs are often considered to be pests. This is because they can damage crops and gardens. They do this by eating plants and leaving behind a sticky slime trail. Slugs also pose a risk to humans. In rare cases people have been known to contract a form of meningitis from contact with slug slime.
So is a slug a snail? No but they are closely related. Both slugs and snails are gastropods with a foot a slimy coating and no shell (in the case of slugs). While slugs and snails may look different they share many similarities including their reproductive organs and their diet.
Is a slug a snail?
No a slug is not a snail.
Snails have a shell and slugs do not.
How does a slug move?
A slug moves by secreting mucus which it uses to adhere to surfaces and glide.
What do slugs eat?
Slugs are herbivores and eat mostly leaves flowers and fruits.
Do all slugs have shells?
No not all slugs have shells.
Some slugs have internal shells while others have external shells.
What is the difference between a slug and a snail?
The main difference between a slug and a snail is that snails have a shell and slugs do not.
How long do slugs live?
The lifespan of a slug depends on the species but is typically 2-3 years.
What is the scientific name for a slug?
The scientific name for a slug is Gastropoda.
Do slugs have eyes?
Some slugs have eyes while others do not.
How many hearts does a slug have?
Slugs have one heart.
What kind of habitat do slugs live in?
Slugs typically live in moist environments such as gardens forests and caves.
What is the body temperature of a slug?
The body temperature of a slug is approximately 20 degrees Celsius.
Are slugs harmful to humans?
No slugs are not harmful to humans.
Do slugs carry diseases?
Some slugs carry diseases such as rat lungworm but these are not typically harmful to humans.
What is the average size of a slug?
The average size of a slug is 5-10 centimeters.
What is the average weight of a slug?
The average weight of a slug is 20-30 grams.
