|  | Public Health Safety | Food Safety

Which Slugs Are Dangerous in Hawaii?

A dangerous roundworm infection called angiostrongyliasis has been reported in parts of Hawaii. The infection is commonly transmitted through unwashed produce and can lead to severe complications such as meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Certain types of slugs and snails in the area contract the parasite from rats. Humans then are infected when they digest the slugs, or fruits and vegetables that have come into contact with the infected slugs. There is little danger of contracting angiostrongyliasis if the produce is properly cleaned before consumption.

  1. Cuban Slug

    • Native to Cuba, this species was first introduced into the Pacific Basin in the 1980s. It was first seen in 1985 on Oahu, and is now the most common large slug found in Hawaii. This species does not have any outer shell and can be up to 2 3/4 inches long. The appearance varies and the color ranges between brown, black and albino white. They eat many common fruits and plants such as coffee beans, mango, sweet potato, papaya, banana, pepper and eggplant. Be aware that this species is nocturnal, so you may not even realize it has infested your garden.

    Asian Semi-slug

    • A particular variety of the semi-slug known as the Asian semi-slug, or Parmarion martensi, has started multiplying around Hawaii at an alarming rate. This species has a grayish-brown coloring and is about two inches long. It is particularly adept at climbing structures where it then leaves its infected feces on plant matter. The Asian semi-slug is commonly reported in home gardens where it feeds on hibiscus, papaya and other lettuce. This species has the highest probability of carrying angiostrongyliasis due to its habits and interaction with human food. It is most commonly found on eastern Hawaii Island, but is also located in most low-elevation areas.

    Giant Africa Snail

    • This species is best distinguished by a red and brown outer shell and its comparatively large size. Commonly attached to trees and plant life, this snail can grow to over five inches long. It is not native to the Islands as it first appeared in the late 1930s. It has now spread to all parts of Hawaii and feeds on a variety of foods such as lettuce and papaya.

    Prevention

    • With over 20 slug and snail species capable of transmitting disease, always make sure to clean your produce. There is still a debate whether or not the slime from slugs can get you sick, but any trace of slime will indicate a possible infestation in your garden. Eliminate rats from your garden to keep the snails from coming into contact with rat feces. Cover your garden or use slug poison around the area to control an infestation. Clean your hands with antibacterial soap if they come into contact with slugs or slug slime.

Food Safety - Related Articles