The sequence of images shows part of the mating ritual of two Cystopelta species slugs. I understand this sighting is showing the following. Slugs are hermaphrodites, with both male and female reproductive organs. When a slug is in heat, amongst other things it releases a chemical in its slime which attracts other slugs. When slugs locate a potential mate, they will circle around each other in ever tightening circles. They circle in a clockwise direction when viewed from above, ensuring their right sides face each other as this is the side from which their genitalia appear from beneath their mantles. They stroke each other over a prolonged period and eventually exchange sperm. (See similar sighting 4397750). Thanks to Marcus Leach for the initial sighting on a tree in ANBG’s Rainforest Gully, during recent rain.
TimL These are very important images. This is the first time Cystopelta has been photographed copulating. I know several people who would be interested to see this. Would you be able to send me these images via email in a format that could be digitally saved ie as jpegs or Tiff images. Also would like to post them on Facebook credited to you. My email address is - michael.shea@austmus.gov.au Thanks in advance Michael
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