The ash-back slug Limax cinereoniger is the largest slug on Earth and reaches a maximum body length of 20cm. The one pictured above is perhaps less than half of its potential size. Irish populations are listed as ‘Vulnerable’ to extinction under IUCN assessment criteria [5], with declines attributed to forestry practices. (Photo: Aidan O’Hanlon©)

The ash-back slug Limax cinereoniger is the largest slug on Earth and reaches a maximum body length of 20cm. The one pictured above is perhaps less than half of its potential size. Irish populations are listed as ‘Vulnerable’ to extinction under IUCN assessment criteria [5], with declines attributed to forestry practices. (Photo: Aidan O’Hanlon©)

The ash-back slug Limax cinereoniger is the largest slug on Earth and reaches a maximum body length of 20cm. The one pictured above is perhaps less than half of its potential size. Irish populations are listed as ‘Vulnerable’ to extinction under IUCN assessment criteria [5], with declines attributed to forestry practices. (Photo: Aidan O’Hanlon©)