Laevicaulis alte, commonly known as the Seychelles slug or the tropical leatherleaf slug, is a species of land slug in the family Veronicellidae, which is known for its terrestrial slug members that lack shells and have a leathery texture to their skin. Laevicaulis alte is notable for its elongated, smooth, and shiny body, which can range in color from dark grey to black. The body is relatively flat compared to other slugs, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Tropical Leatherleaf Slug
Laevicaulis alte
Classification
KINGDOM
:
Animalia
PHYLUM
:
Mollusca
CLASS
:
Gastropoda
ORDER
:
Systellommatophora
FAMILY
:
Veronicellidae
GENUS
:
Laevicaulis
SPECIES
:
Laevicaulis alte
Other Information
Venomous?
Laevicaulis alte is not poisonous. Like most slugs, it is harmless to humans in terms of chemical toxicity.
A Danger to Humans?
There is no direct danger to humans from Laevicaulis alte. However, as with many slugs, it can be a pest in gardens and on agricultural lands, where it feeds on a variety of plants, sometimes damaging ornamental plants and vegetables.
Population Status
Specific data on the population size of Laevicaulis alte is limited, but it is known to establish populations successfully in tropical and subtropical regions where conditions are favorable. Its ability to reproduce quickly can make it a common sight in suitable habitats.
Channeled Apple Snail (Pomacea canaliculata), Photo by David Lowenthal
Life Span:
The lifespan of Laevicaulis alte can vary depending on environmental conditions, but slugs generally have a life expectancy of a few years, possibly up to 2-3 years under optimal conditions.
Weight and Length:
Laevicaulis alte can grow to a considerable size for a slug, typically reaching lengths of up to 10 cm or more when fully extended.
Distribution:
Originally from East Africa, Laevicaulis alte has spread to many tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including parts of Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific islands. It thrives in moist environments with ample vegetation.
Tropical Leatherleaf Slug (Laevicaulis alte), Photo by David Lowenthal
Habits and Lifestyle:
Laevicaulis alte is mostly nocturnal, coming out during the night or after rain to avoid desiccation and feed. During the day, it hides in dark, moist locations such as under logs, stones, and debris.
Diet and Nutrition:
Its diet includes a wide range of plant materials, both living and decaying, making it a detritivore as well as a herbivore. It is known to feed on a variety of cultivated plants and can be considered a pest due to this behavior.
Mating Habits:
Laevicaulis alte is hermaphroditic, like many slugs, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs. Mating involves mutual fertilization, and they can lay clusters of eggs in moist soil or under debris, ensuring the next generation’s survival.