56 



LiMAx cifCEREus (The Spotted Slug). Muller. 

 Figure 28. 



The species we are now describing is the Limax 

 maximus of Linneus and Grey, and as such is described 

 by most of our British conchologists ; Professor Forbes 

 has, however, adopted the name [L.cinereus) used by 

 Mdller, Drapernaud, Fleming, Bauchaud Chautereaux, 

 Macgillivry, Nillson, and Blainville. 



This slug which attracted the attention of the earlier 

 naturalists was recorded by Merret, in 1667, ia his 

 Pinax, as L. maximus, and, althougli not so common 

 as Limax agrestis, it is yet a very abundant mollusc ; 

 inhabiting damp situations, and being found in cellars, 

 gardens, out-houses, and hedges; under decaying wood, 

 and fragments of stones, &c. ; coming forth from its 

 retreat when invited by a copious devr, or shower of 

 rain. 

 It does not appear to be so hardy as Limax agrestis. 

 Limax cinereus is much larger than any other branch 

 of this interesting family, sometimes exceeding six 

 inches in length. Wheo closely examined it is a hand- 

 some slug. 



The back of the animal Is circular, excepting near 

 the tail, where it is pointed. The tail is acute. The 

 body is wrinkled longitudinally. The mantle is 

 rounded in front, and of the form of a shield behind. 

 II is mostly brown, crash-coloured, spotted with black. 

 The sole of the foot is yellow, The upper tentacles 



