This slime is vital to the slug in several ways, by enabling it to slide easily over logs, leaves and whatever else lies in its path. Slug trails can often be found meandering along leaves or smooth rocks. In addition, a thick coating of slime helps protect the slug from dehydration. Although banana slugs are usually found only in their native forest habitat, they are often blamed for the damage done to gardens. Most of this damage is caused by several varieties of introduced European slugs, recognizable by their darker color.
Banana slugs remain vital members of the forest ecosystem.