Locomotor activity of the terrestrial slug, Limax maximus: response to progressive dehydration.

Abstract

The circadian locomotor rhythm of the terrestrial slug, Limax maximus, was measured with activity wheels during exposure to both humid and drying conditions. Slugs kept in wet wheels (100% RH) remained fully hydrated while those in dry wheels (less than 30% RH) experienced progressive dehydration. Transfer of slugs from a wet wheel to a dry wheel resulted in an increase in the intensity and duration of their patterned locomotor activity that persisted for 3 days. Once the slugs were returned to wet wheels, their locomotor activity returned to normal.