LIMAX

(Lat. limax, rt5/wg.) The name of a genus of the Linnaean Vermes Mollusca, of which the common" slug is the type. The genus enters into the cla Gasteropod a and order Pulmonaria of the system of Cuvier; and is now raised to the rank of a family {LtjnacidtB), which includes Liniax proper; Jrion, Fer.; Stenoptis, Guild.; Vagin7tlus,¥er.; 7'cst a cell a, ham.; Partnacella, Cuv., . Each of these genera has a small scutiform rudimental shell developed in the substance of the mantle, and protecting the heart. The orifice of respiration in the true slugs {Limax, Cuv.) is on the right side, and not so far forward as mArion. The rudimental shell is marked with fine and concentric striae, and is calcified internally. The species of this genus are the pests of gardens and cultivated grounds. Young plants niay be protected from slugs by having a coarse horsehair rope coiled round their stems, or by being plentifully sprinkled with soot; or they may be watered morning and evening with strong and fresh lime water. LIMB, in Astronomy, signifies the border or outermost edge of the sun or moon. Also the graduated edge of a circle, or other astronomical histrumcnt. [s. 679]