This is a large black slug which can grow up to 20 cm in length, but usually 10 to 15 cm. They range in colour from jet black to chestnut and even orange. When disturbed they contract to a hemisphere. Its mucus is extremely sticky. They are an omnivorous species, eating carrion and dung as well as vegetable matter. They prefer rotting vegetation to living material. They tend to come out at night or after rainfall during the day.