What type of pest is categorized as a gastropod?

Gastropods are a class of mollusks that are characterized by their soft bodies and usually a coiled shell. This class includes both slugs and snails, which are well-known for their distinctively slow movement and their ability to produce mucus that helps them navigate various surfaces. They are often found in damp environments and can be significant pests in gardens and agricultural settings due to their herbivorous feeding habits.

The other categories listed—spiders, insects, and crustaceans—do not fall under the classification of gastropods. Spiders belong to the arachnids, insects are classified as part of the hexapods, and crustaceans are a separate group of arthropods that typically have hard exoskeletons and jointed legs. Understanding these classifications is crucial for pest control, as it informs the relevant control measures and management strategies that technologists will utilize for different types of pests.