Unraveling the Mystery of Slugs! The Behavioral Science of Slugs Saves the Fields

Recent research has shown that slugs move up and down in the soil according to weather and soil conditions, forming high-density patches within fields, and these patches tend to remain stable throughout the growing season. This suggests a high potential for "precision control," where pesticides or nematodes are targeted specifically at these patches, potentially reducing pesticide use by about 50% while still mitigating damage. In the UK, following the ban on metaldehyde, alternatives such as ferric phosphate and beer traps are becoming more widespread, yet the cost-effectiveness of broad application remains a challenge. On social media, there is growing interest in "targeted control" and balancing "cost-effectiveness with environmental considerations."