Experimental study of the feeding preferences of Arion vulgaris (Gastropoda: Arionidae) in Central Russia

The results of the experimental study of food preferences of Arion vulgaris in the conditions of Central Russia are presented. Fifty-five native and alien plant species from 22 families were used in the experiment. A. vulgaris causes the greatest damage to the Apiaceae and to a lesser extent to the Polygonaceae, Onagraceae and Ranunculaceae. Assessment of trophic preferences of the A. vulgaris showed a wide food plasticity, providing high adaptability of this species.