Species: Milax gigates
Common name: Greenhouse slug
Family: Milacidae
Supposedly sensitive to frost, their underground foraging behavior may offer some protection. Western Oregon’s mild winters may allow them to persist in field situations for long periods.
Origin: Europe
Diet: Plant material. Can be a pest of root crops and seedlings.
Behavior: Commonly subterranean. Reported as an important greenhouse pest in Oregon in the 1940s.
Where in Oregon: Apparently widespread in western Oregon with a spotty distribution associated with sheltered environments such as greenhouses.
Similar exotics to look for: There are at possibly 12 more species of Milax in Europe, but another genus, Tandonia, is of more concern. Tandonia species will usually have a distinct pale stripe along the tail (keel) and dark pigmented areas. Possible Tandonia should be reported to ODA.
Diet: Plant material. Can be a pest of root crops and seedlings.
Behavior: Commonly subterranean. Reported as an important greenhouse pest in Oregon in the 1940s.
Where in Oregon: Apparently widespread in western Oregon with a spotty distribution associated with sheltered environments such as greenhouses.
Similar exotics to look for: There are at possibly 12 more species of Milax in Europe, but another genus, Tandonia, is of more concern. Tandonia species will usually have a distinct pale stripe along the tail (keel) and dark pigmented areas. Possible Tandonia should be reported to ODA.
