English name: Leaf-veined slug

Māori name: Hātaretare

Scientific name: Reflectopallium pseadophyllum

NZ Status: Native

Conservation Status (NZTCS): x

Found: Zealandia, your garden

Threats: Habitat degradation

Did you know? They prefer algae and lichen rather than leafy greens, so you don't have to worry for your crops!

Photo Credit: Chris Helliwell

Part of the family Athoracophoridae, there are about 30 species of native Aotearoa New Zealand slugs, and all have a characteristic leaf-patterned backfor camouflage. Being nocturnal, these slugs are generally found in wooded areas or shrub inside rotting logs to shelter from the sun.

Unlike introduced slugs, they do not damage garden plants, so they are of no harm to gardeners! Rather, they feed on the algae, fungi, and lichen on leaf surfaces (which is why they are most often seen on damp evenings). In doing so, they aid plant growth. By removing the algal film on the surface of leaves they allow the leaves to fulfill their full photosynthetic potential.

Look for them: Hātaretare are nocturnal, so your best chance to spot them is on a Zealandia by Night tour. Look for them on logs, kōtukutuku trees, and on the handrails to the bridges along Te Māhanga. During the day, they may hide in the Taonga Towers.

References:

http://www.terrain.net.nz/friends-of-te-henui-group/local-snails-slugs-worms/common-slug.html