Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
Apophallation is the biting off of the penis, known to occur in terrestrial slugs, which are hermaphroditic gastropod mollusks. It has been reported in some species of banana slugs, Ariolimax, and in the distantly related Deroceras laeve. [1] [2] In the mating of banana slugs, the penis is inserted into the body of the partner.
Banana slugs are hermaphroditic, meaning they are both male and female at the same time. [3] During reproduction, Ariolimax buttoni engages in apophallation - the behavior in which a slug chews off its mating partner's penis. [5] Their mating season is very long, lasting from February to early September. In addition, the copulation itself is long.
In the case where one penis is chewed off, this is usually done by the other slug. A replacement penis does not grow back. Apophallation is most widely found in Ariolimax species, [1] which have internal sperm exchange. In these slugs, apophallation is only an occasional occurrence which follows a period of struggle and pulling by the owner.
For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
The Pacific banana slug is the second-largest species of terrestrial slug in the world, achieving a length of up to 25 centimetres (9.8 in) [6] and a weight of up to 115 grams (4.1 ounces). [7] The largest slug species is Limax cinereoniger, which can reach 30 centimetres (12 in) in length. Banana slugs have an average lifespan of 1–7 years. [5]
The male sexual organ of an adult banana slug is quite large in proportion to its size, as well as compared to the female organ. It is possible for banana slugs, while mating, to become stuck together. If a substantial amount of wiggling fails to separate them, the male organ will be bitten off (using the slug's radula), see apophallation. If a ...
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Parents to protest at Maryland Cracker Barrel over students' treatment. Show comments. Advertisement. Advertisement. Holiday Shopping Guides.
Need help? Call us! 800-290-4726 Login / Join. Mail