Pulp Slug

Pulp Slugs are a large species of slug found on Aureia. Their mucus is used to preserve food in many parts of the continent and is considered a delicacy in some.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Their proportions are similar to other smaller species of slugs. Due to its size and large skin surface area, they have to produce large amounts of mucus when the air around them is not humid enough.

Genetics and Reproduction

Pulp Slugs are hermaphrodites, having both female and male reproductive organs. Once fertilised the female lays approximately 10 eggs.

Growth Rate & Stages

The average life expectancy of a Pulp Slug is around a year and a half, they reach adulthood in approximately one month.

Ecology and Habitats

They mostly live in caves or the dense undergrowth of humid forests. They thrive in climates that have very mild seasons. Due to their bodies being rich with fats and proteins, they are a likely target for larger predators like wild cats or crocodilians.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Their primary food sources are fungi, lichen and moss. They also scavenge on the forest floor.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

People started breeding Pulp Slugs for the large amounts of mucus, which they found was an excellent preservative for perishable foods. In some parts meats and fish preserved in Pulp mucus became a delicacy. Although it was found that the quality of the mucus depends on the slugs' diet. A mostly plant based diet makes the mucus odorless and more green in colour, while a predominantly meat based diet will make it almost completely clear but it will give off an slight odor of rot. They are usually bred in damp caves where the outside climate has little to no effect.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

They possess two pairs of tentacles on their head, the upper pair senses light and the lower pair gives them a sense of smell.

Scientific Name

Veronicella boletus

Lifespan

1,5 years

Average Height

40 - 60 cm

Average Weight

25 - 40 kg

Average Length

1,5 m