With copper and mangan I was thinking of a story that Nicole Masters told about a weed problem on extensive grasslands. A sap analysis of the weed was taken and the minerals that where particularly high in the analysis were then sprayed onto the land. This is at first a bit counter intuitive, but the weeds died. Their role or function in the ecosystem was no longer needed!

Going back to slugs. Mavbe their role is to increase Mangan availability or improve copper levels. Perhaps if we take on this job ourselves we can cut out the middle man (or slug!)

I have skimmed through the Ernst Stahl book. It is basically and overview on the various mechanisms (physical, chemical, etc.) plant have to protect themselves from being eaten with slugs being the main diners in his experiments. There is however very little practical help. Native plants have their strategies, whereas “our cultivated crops, especially lettuce, are completely defenseless against slugs and snails. Indeed lettuce’s existence is only made possible though man’s protection and even he has to often accept a losing battle with the ravenous mollusc!”

I hope not!

Is there anyone out there? Feedback appreciated.