Invertebrate · GBIF taxon 5859208
Cuban Leaf Slug
Veronicella cubensisAlso known as Cuban Slug, Cuban Leatherleaf Slug
Cuban leaf slugs are flattened, leathery terrestrial mollusks that lack external shells and feature a tan to brownish mantle often marked with a dark central line. Active primarily at night or following tropical rains, they forage on garden foliage, seedlings, and decaying plant material. Their ability to travel unnoticed in potted soil and nursery stock has allowed them to establish robust populations outside their native Caribbean range.
NocturnalPestMoisture-loving
1 / 7—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Seedlings
- Leaf foliage
- Decaying plant matter
Predators
- Toads
- Ground beetles
- Snakes
ThreatsAgricultural pest control, prolonged drought
HabitatsGardens, agricultural fields, tropical moist forests, greenhouses
Life span1–2 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderSystellommatophora
- FamilyVeronicellidae
- GenusVeronicella
- SpeciesVeronicella cubensis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskModerate
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is moderate
- Can carry parasitic rat lungworm larvae; avoid bare-handed contact and wash garden produce thoroughly.
- Why it is dangerous
- Hosts parasitic rat lungworm larvae, which can cause severe neurological illness if ingested via unwashed produce or slime contact.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a broad, flattened, tan to brown body up to 12 cm long with a dark central line down the back.
- What to do
- Avoid handling with bare skin, wear disposable or garden gloves, and wash garden veggies thoroughly.
Responsible observation
- Night observation: Search potted plant rims, leaf litter, and wet pavement after sunset using a torch.
- Barrier controls: Protect garden beds with physical barriers or copper tape to deter feeding on seedlings.
- Hygiene: Wear gloves when clearing yard debris and thoroughly wash all home-grown produce.
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