Kip’s Comments - August 18, 2025
Land Slug on Hand - Image 1014818
Right-side Blow Hole
Interesting information I learned today after finding and photographing a slug.
Slugs breathe out of a hole on their right side. Inside that soft body, behind the hole, is a lung filled with an extensive vascular network. (Snails have a blow hole too but we cannot see it due to their shell.)
The hole a slug breathes through is called a "pneumostome." Remember that if you are ever on Jeopardy!
Slug eyes are located on top of the “antenna-like” structures on the head of the slug.
Slug eyes are very primitive - allowing them to “see” only light and dark and some movement.
Slugs can regrow the “antenna/eyes,” but it takes some time.
Slugs feed on plant material, including desirable plants. That is why slugs are generally considered pests.
Slugs have both male and female reproductive organs. Any slug can mate with any other slug resulting in a continual supply of slugs.
Slug can have up to five sets of offspring per year.
Slugs are thought to live about one year.
And the one detail I wish I had known before letting the slug crawl on me for photos: Slugs are a source of bad bacteria - including E coli and salmonella. It is advised to not touch slugs or their slime. Wash thoroughly after touching them.
Land Slug on Hand - Image 1014781
