Animal Species:Leopard Slug
This is the largest of the introduced slugs found in Sydney.
Leopard Slug Limax maximus
Matthew Bulbert
© Australian Museum
Identification
The name Leopard Slug is derived from the slug's dark spots on its light brown body.
Size range
20 cm
Distribution
The Leopard Slug is found throughout Australia.
Habitat
The Leopard Slug is foun in urban areas.
Feeding and Diet
The Leopard Slug feeds on dead animal tissue, cat food and pet faeces.
Mating and reproduction
Slugs and snails are hermaphrodites, having both male and female reproductive organs. When they mate, Leopard Slugs become entwined and lower themselves from their branch on a thread of mucus to exchange sperm. After the exchange has taken place they return via the mucous thread, eating it as they go.
Classification
- Species:
- maximus
- Genus:
- Limax
- Family:
- Limacidae
- Order:
- Pulmonata
- Class:
- Gastropoda
- Phylum:
- Mollusca
- Kingdom:
- Animalia
Last Updated:
Tags slugs, gastropoda, wildlife of sydney, invertebrates, identification,