First record of the invasive slug Arion vulgaris Moquin-Tandon, 1885 (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Arionidae) in Quebec (Canada)

Early detection of exotic species and rapid dissemination of information are both essential for risk assessments and preventive measures to be implemented early. In this context, we report the first mention of Arion vulgaris in Quebec (Canada). This species is considered as the most important slug pest in Europe and is of particular concern in North America where its presence has rarely been documented. Identifications were based both on a 16S rDNA gene segment and on genital morphology. Our results confirmed the northernmost successful introduction of A. vulgaris in North America. This new record emphasizes the need to acquire more data on the invasion of this species in North America.