Management Plan for the Warty Jumping-slug (Hemphillia glandulosa) in Canada - 2015 [Proposed]

The federal, provincial, and territorial government signatories under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk (1996) agreed to establish complementary legislation and programs that provide for effective protection of species at risk throughout Canada. Under the Species at Risk Act (S.C. 2002, c.29) (SARA), the federal competent ministers are responsible for the preparation of management plans for listed species of special concern and are required to report on progress five years after the publication of the final document on the SAR public registry.

The Minister of the Environment and the Minister responsible for the Parks Canada Agency are the competent ministers under SARA for the Warty Jumping-slug and have prepared this management plan as per section 65 of SARA. To the extent possible it has been prepared in cooperation with British Columbia Ministry of Environment. SARA section 69 allows the Minister to adopt all or part of an existing plan for the species if it meets the requirements under SARA for the content. The B.C. Ministry of Environment led the development of the attached management plan for the Warty Jumping-slug (Part 2) in cooperation with Environment Canada and the Parks Canada Agency.

Success in the conservation of this species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in this plan and will not be achieved by Environment Canada, the Parks Canada Agency, or any other jurisdiction alone. All Canadians are invited to join in supporting and implementing this plan for the benefit of the Warty Jumping-slug and Canadian society as a whole.

Implementation of this management plan is subject to appropriations, priorities, and budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations.

The following sections have been included to address specific requirements of SARA that are not addressed in the "Management Plan for the Warty Jumping-slug (Hemphillia glandulosa) in British Columbia" (Part 2, henceforth refered to as the provincial management plan) and/or to provide updated or additional information.

Under SARA, there are specific requirements and processes set out regarding the protection of species and their habitats. Therefore, statements in the provincial management plan referring to protection of species and their habitats may not directly correspond to federal requirements, and are not being adopted by Environment Canada or the Parks Canada Agency as part of the federal management plan.

This section replaces the "COSEWIC Species Assessment Information" (section 1) provided in the provincial management plan.

Warty Jumping-slug was re-assessed by COSEWIC in 2013:

This section replaces the "Species Status Information" (section 2) provided in the provincial management plan.

Legal Designation: SARA Schedule 1 (Special Concern) (2005)

It is estimated that approximately 10 – 15% of the global range of this species is in Canada (K. Ovaska, Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd, pers. comm., 2013).

A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is conducted on all SARA recovery planning documents, in accordance with the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals. The purpose of a SEA is to incorporate environmental considerations into the development of public policies, plans, and program proposals to support environmentally sound decision-making and to evaluate whether the outcomes of a recovery planning document could affect any component of the environment or achievement of any of the Federal Sustainable Development Strategy’s (FSDS) goals and targets.

Recovery planning is intended to benefit species at risk and biodiversity in general. However, it is recognized that implementation of management plans may inadvertently lead to environmental effects beyond the intended benefits. The planning process based on national guidelines directly incorporates consideration of all environmental effects, with a particular focus on possible impacts upon non-target species or habitats. The results of the SEA are incorporated directly into the management plan itself, but are also summarized below in this statement.

The provincial management plan for Warty Jumping-slug contains a section describing the effects of recovery activities on other species (i.e., section 8). Environment Canada and the Parks Canada Agency adopt this section of the provincial recovery plan as the statement on effects of recovery activities on the environment and other species. The distribution of Warty Jumping-slug overlaps with that of several other federally-listed species at risk on south-eastern Vancouver Island. Negative impacts to other species at risk are not anticipated. Recovery planning activities for the Warty Jumping-slug will be implemented with consideration of all co-occurring species at risk, such that there are no negative impacts to these species or their habitats.

Some conservation measures for Warty Jumping-slug (e.g., inventory and monitoring, threat mitigation, habitat conservation, education, and research) may promote the conservation of other species at risk that overlap in distribution and rely on similar habitat attributes (i.e., moist forest habitats and riparian areas). The following species at risk are known to, or might, co-occur with the Warty Jumping-slug and are expected to benefit from proposed conservation measures:

• Dromedary Jumping-slug (Hemphillia dromedarius) (COSEWIC Threatened 2014): shows some overlap in habitat use with the Warty Jumping-slug; known to co-occur at one site.

• Blue-grey Taildropper (Prophysaon coeruleum) (COSEWIC Endangered 2006): known to co-occur with the Warty Jumping-slug at one site.

• Threaded Vertigo (Nearctula sp. 1) (COSEWIC Special Concern 2010): known to co-occur with the Warty Jumping-slug at one site.

• Phantom Orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae) (COSEWIC Threatened 2000)

• Coastal Wood Fern (Dryopteris arguta) (COSEWIC Special Concern 2001)

• Streambank Lupine (Lupinus rivularis) (COSEWIC Endangered 2002)

• B.C. Conservation Data Centre. 2014. BC Species and Ecosystems Explorer. B.C. Ministry of Environment Victoria, B.C. Available: http://a100.gov.bc.ca/pub/eswp/ (accessed July 10, 2014).

• B.C. Conservation Framework. 2012. Conservation Framework Summary. B.C. Ministry of Environment. Victoria, B.C. Available: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/conservationframework/ (accessed July 10, 2014).

• COSEWIC. 2013. COSEWIC status appraisal summary on the Warty Jumping-slug Hemphillia glandulosa in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. 20 pp. (www.registrelep-SARAregistry.gc.ca/default_e.cfm)

• Natureserve. 2014. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.0. NatureServe, Arlington, VA. U.S.A. Available http://explorer.natureserve.org. (accessed July 10, 2014).

This series presents the management plans that are prepared as advice to the Province of British Columbia. Management plans are prepared in accordance with the priorities and management actions assigned under the British Columbia Conservation Framework. The Province prepares management plans for species that may be at risk of becoming endangered or threatened due to sensitivity to human activities or natural events, or species where management is required to meet population targets for ecosystem management, human uses, or ecological services.

A management plan identifies a set of coordinated conservation activities and land use measures needed to ensure, at a minimum, that the target species does not become threatened or endangered or is being managed for use, ecosystem goals, or ecological services. A management plan summarizes the best available science-based information on biology and threats to inform the development of a management framework. Management plans set goals and objectives, and recommend approaches appropriate for species or ecosystem conservation.

Direction set in the management plan provides valuable information on threats and direction on conservation measures that may be used by individuals, communities, land users, conservationists, academics, and governments interested in species and ecosystem conservation.

To learn more about species at risk recovery in British Columbia, please visit the B.C. Ministry of Environment Recovery Planning webpage at: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wld/recoveryplans/rcvry1.htm

Jennifer Heron wrote the draft management plan and completed subsequent edits based on recovery team input. Additional information and review were provided by Ross Vennesland (Parks Canada, Vancouver), Arthur Robinson (Canadian Forest Service, Victoria), Geoff Scudder (University of British Columbia, Vancouver), Jessica Hellmann (University of Notre Dame, Indiana), Bill Woodhouse (BC Parks, Black Creek), Mike Rody (BC Parks, Black Creek), Kristiina Ovaska (Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd.), Lennart Sopuck (Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd.) and Marilyn Fuchs (Capital Regional District, Victoria) and Jeff Brown (B.C. Ministry of Environment). Thank you to Kristiina Ovaska for photographs. Leah Westereng (B.C. Ministry of Environment) completed the editorial and technical review and was instrumental in moving the document forward. This document follows the B.C. guidance for recovery planning (Ministry of Environment 2010a).

Warty Jumping-slug (Hemphillia glandulosa) is a small (adults approximately 2 cm long), forest-dwelling slug ranging in North America from southern British Columbia (B.C.) through western Washington to Oregon. In Canada, the species occurs at the northern limits of its range on southern Vancouver Island, with a range extent estimated at 4700km². Historical and recent distribution records exist from 18 locations, all on southern Vancouver Island, south of Alberni Inlet.

Warty Jumping-slug is designated as Special Concern by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) due to its small range, scattered populations, and habitat loss and fragmentation primarily due to forestry activities. It is listed as Special Concern in Canada on Schedule 1 of the Species at Risk Act (SARA). In B.C., Warty Jumping-slug is ranked S2S3 (imperiled to vulnerable) by the Conservation Data Centre and is on the provincial Blue list. The B.C. Conservation Framework ranks the Warty Jumping-slug as a priority 2 under goals 1 (contribute to global efforts for species and ecosystem conservation) and 3 (maintain the diversity of native species and ecosystems).

Warty Jumping-slug inhabits a wide range of moist forest types, inhabiting old-growth western redcedar and western hemlock stands to second-growth mixedwood stands. The species is often associated with riparian vegetation. Key microhabitat features include moist forest floor conditions, abundant coarse woody debris, a deep litter or moss layer that holds moisture, and shade provided by the forest canopy. The predominant threat to Warty Jumping-slug is logging (IUCN-CMP #5 Biological resource use).

The population and distribution goal is to ensure the persistence of Warty Jumping-slug at all known (and newly recorded) locations throughout the species’ range in Canada. The management objectives for Warty Jumping-slug are to (1) to ensure protection¹ for the known locations (and new locations) and habitats of Warty Jumping-slug; (2) to assess and mitigate the extent of current threats (IUCN-CMP Threats 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) at all locations in B.C.; and (3) to address knowledge gaps (e.g., habitat requirements, range extent within Vancouver Island) for Warty Jumping-slug.

Warty Jumping-slug (Hemphillia glandulosa Bland & W.G. Binney 1875) is a small slug, reaching approximately 20mm in length as an adult. Characteristic features of Jumping-slugs include a prominent, elevated dorsal hump covered by the mantle and a slit in the mantle, exposing a portion of a yellowish or horn-coloured shell plate (COSEWIC 2003). Features that distinguish Warty Jumping-slug from the sympatric Dromedary Jumping-slug include its smaller size, shorter tail, and mantle covered with distinct conical papillae (Figures 1 and 2). Refer to the British Columbia (B.C.) gastropod field guide (Forsyth 2004) and the COSEWIC (2003) status report for further morphological descriptions.

Warty Jumping-slug is one of seven described species of Jumping-slugs endemic to western North America (family Arionidae: genus Hemphillia) (Turgeon et al. 1998). No subspecies of Warty Jumping-slug have been recognized, but recent molecular studies have revealed much genetic fragmentation among populations from different geographic areas, suggesting the nominal species H. glandulosa may represent a complex of sister species (Wilke 2004).

The global distribution of Warty Jumping-slug extends from central Vancouver Island, B.C., southward west of the Cascade Mountains through Washington to west-central Oregon (Figure 3). About 10% of the global distribution is within Canada.

In Canada, Warty Jumping-slug is known from the southern third of Vancouver Island (Figure 4). The estimated extent of occurrence in B.C. is approximately 4700km², but the area of occupancy is a small fraction of this range (about 20–100km²) although it cannot accurately be estimated at this time. As of September 2011, there are 16 extant locations^Footnote2 , most of which are on the west coast of Vancouver Island, from Barclay Sound south to Sooke Inlet (Table 1). Two locations on the east coast of Vancouver Island (Cowichan River and Nanaimo Lakes) are considered historic locations and because of lack of specific information pertaining to the exact spatial location, continued presence at these two locations is difficult to determine. No records exist from mainland B.C. (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2011).

Warty Jumping-slug has a scattered distribution pattern both on Vancouver Island (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2011) and in the United States (Kelley, et al. 1999). In the interior and east coast of Vancouver Island, the species is known from only a few isolated locations. However, in the very moist forests of the west coast, its distribution appears to be more continuous, but logging has fragmented habitats in many areas (Table 1). Much of the potential habitat within the range of the Warty Jumping-slug has not been surveyed, and other locations probably exist on the island. The area of occupancy or available habitat cannot be estimated accurately for any of the locations at present.

No population information is available for the Warty Jumping-slug. At locations where the species is recorded on Vancouver Island the average was 2.6 slugs found per 1 person-hour of searching (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2011; see Appendix 1). Relatively high apparent densities occurred at the Muir Creek location (up to 15 slugs per 30 minutes of searching) when compared to the other locations where 1–7 slugs were found during searches of up to 3 person-hours. At occupied locations, the distribution of the slugs is often clustered within small areas, possibly reflecting availability of suitable microhabitats.

3.3.1 Habitat and Biological Needs

Warty Jumping-slug is an inhabitant of moist coniferous and mixedwood forests ranging in elevation from near sea level to about 1060m on Vancouver Island. Most of the low-elevation locations are on the wet, west coast of the island. Forest age ranges from old growth (> 200 years) to naturally regenerated second-growth stands. The species has been found in remnant patches of old growth on the west coast and on mountaintops in the interior of the island (Ovaska, et al. 2001; Ovaska and Sopuck 2004, 2006b). The species is often associated with riparian areas or other moist locations (COSEWIC 2003). Where suitable moist conditions are present, the slug can occupy young seral stages but is more often found in stands at least 60 years old. At one location, the species was found in a recently logged area, buried deep within decaying wood substrate in a moist depression (Keating Lake location [Table 1]; Ovaska and Sopuck 2001) but whether Warty Jumping-slug can persist in newly logged areas is unknown.

Forest stands occupied by Warty Jumping-slug are often dominated by western redcedar (Thuja plicata) and western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), with a minor component of amabilis fir (Abies amabilis) or deciduous trees, such as red alder (Alnus rubus) or bigleaf maple (Acer macrophyllum) at lower elevations (Ovaska et al. 2001; COSEWIC 2003; Ovaska and Sopuck 2004, 2006b). The higher density Muir Creek location is a moist riparian forest dominated by red alder. Understory vegetation includes sword fern (Polystichum munitum), deer fern (Blechnum spicant), huckleberry species (Vaccinium spp.), and salmonberry (Rubus spectabilis). Moisture-favouring plants, such as devil’s club (Oplopanax horridus), Indian hellebore (Veratrum viride), and skunk cabbage (Lysichitum americanum), are present at some locations. The soils are typically moist and productive, and abundant coarse woody debris is present. Warty Jumping-slug often recorded sheltering under decayed logs and sloughed-off bark but can also be found within moist leaf litter (K. Ovaska pers. comm. 2008; L. Sopuck pers. comm. 2008). Figures 5 and 6 show examples of the range of habitats where the species has been found. Detailed ecosystem descriptions need to be completed for all occupied locations.

Both suitable forest structure and microhabitat conditions are essential for population persistence of Warty Jumping-slug over the long term. Key habitat features include moist forest floor conditions, abundant coarse woody debris, deep litter or moss layer that holds moisture, and shade provided by the forest canopy. Coarse woody debris at variable states of decay provides shelter, egg-laying sites, and a source of moisture for slugs. Across the landscape, suitable habitats must be connected to facilitate colonization of new habitats, repopulation of habitat patches from which the species might have disappeared, and genetic exchange that maintains variability and ability of populations to adapt to changing conditions. The dispersal ability of the Warty Jumping-slug is thought to be poor and is probably hindered by open habitats that do not maintain high humidity and moisture. Such habitats include recently logged areas and other disturbed habitats, especially at drier locations and within the heavily fragmented low-elevation coniferous forests of southern Vancouver Island.

3.3.2 Ecological Role

Warty Jumping-slug plays an ecological role ^{Go to Footnote 3} as a decomposer, soil builder, consumer of live and decaying plant matter; and as prey for various vertebrate and invertebrate predators. Gastropods in general contribute to the turnover of organic matter and decomposition processes on the forest floor (Mason 1970; Richter 1979). Some species also disperse seeds of forest plants and fungal spores, including fungi that form important symbiotic associations with tree roots (Richter 1980; Gervais, et al. 1998; McGraw et al. 2002). Ecological interactions of Warty Jumping-slug have not been studied but it is likely the species plays similar roles. The slug has been observed feeding on fungi and may be important dispersal agents for their spores (Ovaska and Sopuck 2006b). Slugs form important prey for various predators including ground beetles, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and small mammals. Populations at the northern extremity of a species’ distribution may possess unique ecological adaptations and provide a reservoir of genetic variability that allows the species to respond to changing environmental conditions. The Warty Jumping-slug is an important contributor to the forest floor biodiversity in temperate rainforests of the west coast.

3.3.3 Limiting Factors

Dispersal ability: The dispersal ability of Warty Jumping-slug is likely poor, and it is unclear how much spatial area (habitat) is required to sustain a population within a location. The heavily fragmented coniferous forests of southern Vancouver Island may limit natural dispersal. By their very nature, slugs are sedentary and cryptic animals, and their natural ability to colonize new areas is likely poor.

Low density and low reproductive potential: Warty Jumping-slug may be nocturnal. By evidence of low detection during surveys (see Ovaska, et al. 2001; Ovaska and Sopuck 2002b, 2004b, 2006c; Ovaska and Sopuck 2009a; Ovaska and Sopuck 2011) the slug appears secretive, occurs at low densities, and thus presumably has low reproductive potential even within optimal habitats.

Northernmost extent of global range: Warty Jumping-slug is at the northernmost extent of its global range, which likely increases the species’ susceptibility to climatic and stochastic population fluctuations.

Requirement for high air moisture environments: Warty Jumping-slug is an associate of coniferous and mixedwood forests, with well-developed and thick understory vegetation that provides the moist microhabitat necessary to maintain high humidity. The slug has a scattered distribution pattern throughout its range, likely due to the isolation of suitable habitat patches and poor dispersal capabilities.

Susceptibility to dehydration: Slugs are known to initiate "water seeking" responses to dehydration after a short-term reduction in locomotor activity (Prior 1985). The physiology and activity patterns of Warty Jumping-slug inherently make them susceptible to continuous water loss through dehydration. All slugs deposit a dilute mucous trail, and experience constant evaporative water loss through the lung surface and integument. Numerous ecological and physiological studies show a relationship between varying body temperature hydration on locomotor activity (Machin 1975; Peake 1978; Burton 1983; Riddle 1983; Martin 1983 as cited in Prior 1985). Within two hours, active slugs can lose 30–40% of their initial body weight and habitat selection by slugs is correlated with water availability (Prior 1985). Although this information pertains to other slug species, it is likely similar for Warty Jumping-slug.

Threats are defined as the proximate activities or processes that have caused, are causing, or may cause in the future the destruction, degradation, and/or impairment of the entity being assessed (population, species, community or ecosystem) in the area of interest (globe, nation, or subnation). For purposes of threat assessment, only present and future threats are considered ^{Go to Footnote 4} . Threats presented here do not include biological features of the species or population such as inbreeding depression, small population size, and genetic isolation; or likelihood of regeneration or recolonization for ecosystems, which are considered limiting factors ^{Go to Footnote 5} .

For the most part, threats are related to human activities, but they can be natural. The impact of human activity may be direct (e.g., destruction of habitat) or indirect (e.g., invasive species introduction). Effects of natural phenomena (e.g., fire, hurricane, flooding) may be especially important when the species or ecosystem is concentrated in one location or has few occurrences, which may be a result of human activity (Master, et al. 2009). As such, natural phenomena are included in the definition of a threat, though should be applied cautiously. These stochastic events should only be considered a threat if a species or habitat is damaged from other threats and has lost its resilience, and is thus vulnerable to the disturbance (Salafsky et al. 2008) so that this type of event would have a disproportionately large effect on the population/ecosystem compared to the effect they would have had historically

The threat classification below is based on the IUCN-CMP (World Conservation Union–Conservation Measures Partnership) unified threats classification system and is consistent with methods used by the B.C. Conservation Data Centre and the B.C. Conservation Framework. For a detailed description of the threat classification system, see the CMP web location (CMP 2010). For information on how the values are assigned, see Master et al. (2009) and table footnotes for details. Threats for the Warty Jumping-slug were assessed for the entire province (Table 2).

The overall province-wide Threat Impact for this species is High.^{Go to Footnote 6} The predominant threat to Warty Jumping-slug is logging (IUCN-CMP #5 Biological resource use). Threats are further discussed below under the Threat level 1 headings.

IUCN-CMP Threat 5.0 Biological Resource Use (5.3 Logging and wood harvesting)
The range of Warty Jumping-slug coincides with an area of B.C. that has an extensive logging history. Within the Canadian range of Warty Jumping-slug, less than 6% of the landbase remains in old-growth forests and remaining habitats are highly fragmented (MacKinnon and Eng 1995). This forest landbase continues to be intensively managed due to the high demand for forest products. Forest management practices, including pre-commercial thinning, pruning, removal of select tree species, fertilization practices, patch-size harvesting, and clearcut harvesting, likely have detrimental effects on populations of Warty Jumping-slug through changes to coarse woody debris and ground substrate availability, as well as changes to microhumidity and the moisture retention of such habitat.

Pre-commercial thinning and pruning practices reduce the quantity and/or alter the timing of leaf and branch litter that would otherwise fall to the forest floor and provide shelter for Warty Jumping-slug. Pruning activities that remove lateral branches reduce the overall forest canopy, which results in lower relative humidity and subsequent desiccation of the forest floor.

Survival of Warty Jumping-slug within a harvested and/or second-growth forest landscape may depend on the availability of old rotten logs within which the species can take cover and lay eggs. Present day intensive forest management practices may target large dead coarse woody debris for removal during the second rotation of forest harvesting. For example, a century ago Douglas-fir trees were a priority harvest species. Western redcedar trees were still cut, but often only Douglas-fir logs were removed and the large western redcedar logs remained behind. Some second-growth forests are now at harvest age, and consequently some large western redcedar logs, which were left on the forest floor after the first harvest rotation, can still be of merchantable value in present-day markets (e.g., for cedar shakes). Where such logs are still merchantable and are accessible, it is common practice (dependent on market conditions at the time) to remove these logs during or subsequent to the second harvest. Thus, large coarse woody debris may be in short supply in intensively managed forests; these logs are likely important for maintaining stable microclimates for developing eggs, and thus suitable microhabitat for Warty Jumping-slug.

The threat from logging practices is applicable to habitat surrounding the 11 locations: Noyse Creek North, Noyse Creek South, Parkinson Creek, Sarita, Sombrio River (Sombria Creek), Muir Creek (Shirley), Port Renfrew (Snuggery Cove), Keating Lake, Mount Brenton (Holyoak Lake), Mount Hooper, and Cowichan. The potential habitat surrounding each of these locations has not been surveyed and there are likely additional occurrences within these contiguous patches of habitat. Logging is not considered a threat in the national and provincial parks or at the two locations within the CRD.

IUCN-CMP Threat 1.0 Residential & commercial development
Loss of mature and old-growth forest habitats as a result of urbanization and other developments was identified as a main threat to Warty Jumping-slug (COSEWIC 2003). However, this threat was more predominant historically than it is at present. This threat is not applicable to known locations of Warty Jumping-slug, but there is likely some incremental and cumulative habitat loss from land conversion of low elevation private forestland within unsurveyed habitats (particularly from Nanaimo southwards towards Sooke), including areas for recreational opportunity, such as golf courses.

Construction of new recreational infrastructure may potentially impact five locations within parks and protected areas: East Sooke Regional Park (Anderson Cove); Galloping Goose Trail (Sooke); Pachena Bay; East Sooke Regional Park (Park Heights) and Carmanah Walbran. All four of these parks are popular and well-liked recreational areas, especially in summer, and increased demand for parking facilities, washroom facilities, and trails is concurrent with urban/commercial development.

IUCN-CMP Threat 2.0 Agriculture and aquaculture (2.1 Annual and perennial non-timber crops)
Loss of mature and old-growth forest habitats as a result of agricultural land conversion was identified as a threat to Warty Jumping-slug (COSEWIC 2003). However, this threat was more predominant historically than it is at present. This threat is not applicable to known locations of Warty Jumping-slug, but there is likely some incremental and cumulative habitat loss from agricultural land conversion in private low elevation forestland within unsurveyed habitats where Warty Jumping-slug could still be present.

IUCN-CMP Threat 4.0 Transportation and service corridors (4.1 Roads and railroads)
Within unsurveyed habitats, there is potential for road and highway expansion projects that include plans to divert, infill, and alter watercourses and clear riparian habitats where Warty Jumping-slug could occur. Transportation infrastructure projects that isolate habitat patches increase population isolation, decrease available habitat, and increase drought from edge effects and stand/wind penetration, which eventually leads to increased mortality and ecosystem changes through introduced species. This threat is potentially applicable to 13 locations, particularly where safety and access are important (e.g., regional parks) and logging roads (e.g., on both Crown and private forestland), as well as highways expansion projects (e.g., diverting watercourses and culverts that would prevent road flooding).

IUCN-CMP Threat 6.0 Human intrusions and disturbance (6.1 Recreational activities)
Intensive recreational activities such as hiking, foot and bicycle traffic, and use of all-terrain vehicles and trail bikes, especially off-trail (e.g., when coarse woody debris is used to build bike ramps and jumps) can result in soil compaction and alteration of plant cover. Even within protected areas, what would appear as low impact activities, such as hiking, and bicycle traffic can result in degradation of habitat quality through soil compaction and can also cause accidental mortality. Such effects can be pronounced in areas where the species is restricted to small habitat patches. Inadvertent trampling of the location could result in significant mortality, especially during the fall breeding period when the slugs are active on the forest floor. Further, popular hiking trails may eventually require additional management (e.g., for safety and access) and thus require the eventual use of herbicides or creation of infrastructure such as the addition of bark mulch or construction of wider trails.

This threat is applicable to at least five Warty Jumping-slug locations: Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park, Pachena Bay, East Sooke CRD Park (Anderson Cove), East Sooke Regional Park (Park Heights) and Galloping Goose Regional Trail (Sooke). However, at Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park the impact of this threat is likely minimal because of decreasing access and limited use within the park.

IUCN-CMP Threat 7.0 Natural system modifications (7.1 Fire and fire suppression)
Burke et al. (1999) cited fire as a threat to gastropod populations in Washington State. Coniferous forests on the eastern side of southern Vancouver Island are typically dry and much more susceptible to fire, particularly in July through September. Human activities that increase the threat of fire, including careless attendance to campfires, discarded cigarettes, and improperly wired camping equipment and machinery used within wilderness areas, contribute to the possibility of wildfires. Forests fires occur yearly at present, although efforts are made to control the frequency, size, and spread of fire through fire suppression programs. All Warty Jumping-slug locations are subject to fire suppression activities, although the type of activity varies depending on the region. Natural fires throughout the ecosystems of southern Vancouver Island would have occurred in higher frequency and severity historically. This is not considered a high threat at present, partially due to fire suppression programs.

IUCN-CMP Threat 8.0 Invasive and other problematic species and genes (8.1 Invasive non-native/alien species)
Introduced gastropods compose approximately one-third of gastropod species of B.C. (Forsyth 2004). Introduced gastropods likely compete with Warty Jumping-slug as consumers of similar food sources or prey upon the species. Many introduced gastropods occur in habitats throughout Vancouver Island (Forsyth 2004), are widespread within urban and agricultural landscapes in southwestern B.C., and can be locally abundant (Forsyth 1999). Although most introduced species are primarily in areas of high human use and alteration, some have spread into intact coniferous forest habitats and increased their range extent (K. Ovaska pers. comm. 2008).

Invasive gastropods found at Warty Jumping-slug locations include the Chocolate Arion (also called European Black Slug) (Arion rufus), Giant Gardenslug (Limax maximus), Grey Gardenslug (Deroceras reticulatum), and Garlic Snail (Oxychilus alliarius) (Ovaska et al. 2001; Ovaska and Sopuck 2004, 2006a, 2006b). Chocolate Arion and Giant Gardenslug may compete with native forest-dwelling species for shelter and egg-laying locations. Giant Gardenslug is known to be an aggressive competitor (Rollo and Wellington 1979) with other gastropod species. Carnivorous gastropods, such as Longneck Fieldslug (Deroceras panormitanum) and Wormslug (Boettgerilla vermiformis), may also be of concern, although at present neither appears widely distributed within Vancouver Island forests (K. Ovaska pers. comm. 2007; L. Sopuck pers. comm. 2007). Within forests in Washington State, Chocolate Arion is documented from within old growth forests, and may be displacing native Banana Slug (Ariolimax columbianus) (Burke et al. 1999). The impact of this threat is unknown and needs additional research.

Invasive plant species are known to change the forest floor vegetation and soil structure and increase the light penetrating the understory vegetation to the forest floor. Increases in light levels lead to drier microclimate and understory conditions and result in desiccation of the forest floor and increase dehydration stress to Warty Jumping-slug and other species that depend upon high water and humidity levels. Introduced plant species, such as English ivy (Hedera helix), have the potential to spread and displace the native vegetation on forest floors. Native gastropods are not known to live within vegetation patches of English Ivy (Burke, et al). English holly (Ilex aquifolium) and Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor) are also widely spread introduced plants within native ecosystems in coastal B.C., and are known to displace native vegetation. This threat needs additional research.

Roadsides act as corridors into natural habitats and are known to facilitate the rapid spread of introduced species (e.g., plant seeds attach to car tires, and become dislodged at new locations) (Trombulak and Frissell 2000).

The threat of invasive plants and invertebrates exist at all Warty Jumping-slug locations, although the level of impact is unknown.

IUCN-CMP Threat 9.0 Pollution (9.3 Agricultural and forestry effluents)
Herbicides are used in some locations to control roadside vegetation, both within private forestlands and on Crown lands. Both at present day and in the past, herbicides have been used along hiking trails, throughout recreational picnic areas within parks, and along road and railway corridors. For example, various herbicides have been tested to control two highly invasive plants, Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) and gorse (Ulex europaeus), along roadsides in the Duncan area on Vancouver Island (Zielke et al. 1992). Herbicides are used less today; however, it is unclear how extensive this practice was (or is currently), within the mature forest habitats where Warty Jumping-slug is known to occur on southern Vancouver Island.

Baur and Baur (1990) have documented the use of roadsides by gastropods and concluded the Land Snail Arianta arbustorum prefers moving along road verges and avoids crossing roads, including unpaved roads of only 3m wide (as cited in Trombulak and Frissell 2000). The related species, Dromedary Jumping-slug, has been observed along roadside verges (K. Ovaska pers. comm. 2007), as well as crossing a trail within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (Ovaska and Sopuck 2003a; K. Ovaska pers. comm. 2007). It is possible Warty Jumping-slug also has similar dispersal behaviour, and may also inhabit trail and forest edges. Spraying herbicides to control roadside vegetation likely would harm gastropods within these roadside verges, and the cumulative and lasting effects of herbicides within these environments may lead to long-term declines in gastropod numbers (although this has not been substantiated).

This threat is potentially applicable to all Warty Jumping-slug locations although further research and monitoring is needed to determine the effects of herbicides on Warty Jumping-slug and the overall impact of this threat.

IUCN-CMP Threat 10.0 Geological events (10.2 Earthquakes/tsunamis)
The low-elevation areas of greater Victoria are within the tsunami zone; should a natural disaster happen, extensive flooding would occur throughout much of this area and at least four known locations of Warty Jumping-slug would be wiped out: Galloping Goose Trail (Sooke), Pachena Bay, East Sooke Regional Park (Park Heights) and East Sooke (Anderson Cove).

IUCN-CMP Threat 11.0 Climate change and severe weather
Climate change is considered a potential, but poorly understood, threat to Warty Jumping-slug habitat. Climate change may increase possible drought and cause a shift in understory vegetation composition. Should climate become drier, forest floor conditions are likely to deteriorate microhabitat quality and have detrimental effects on survivorship of Warty Jumping-slug adults and their eggs. The loss of a suitable moisture regime would then increase the susceptibility of adults and eggs to desiccation. Indirect impacts could include the concentration of predators and competitors, including introduced species, into remaining moist areas.

The population and distribution goal is to ensure the persistence of Warty Jumping-slug at all known (and newly recorded) locations throughout the species' range in Canada.

Warty Jumping-slug has a restricted range in Canada and apparently low densities at all known locations. The overall population and distribution goal aims to ensure no populations become extirpated in Canada. The species will likely always be considered "special concern" unless a significant number of new locations are found. Historical abundance and distribution information for this species is not available and limited to two historic museum records. Both of these records are from within the known range of the species, and both records are within a highly modified and impacted area (e.g., forestry, urban and other threats). As there is no information to indicate that the species was previously more widespread (e.g., with a larger range extent), an objective to actively increase the number of populations, which may allow the species to be downlisted, is not appropriate.

The population and distribution goal for Warty Jumping-slug cannot be quantified due to knowledge gaps, as population size is unknown at each of the 16 Warty Jumping-slug locations. Warty Jumping-slug is not commonly found and surveys within known locations usually result in only one or two individuals being recorded (see Appendix 1). The difficulty with estimating populations at low densities, coupled with the difficulty of tagging and monitoring small soft-bodied gastropods, makes population estimates labour intensive and logistically difficult. The possibility of causing undue stress to Warty Jumping-slug populations and unintended mortality from handling must also be considered. The above population and distribution goal sets a minimum population objective (> 1 slug) for each location. This allows the survival/recovery habitat to be aimed at identifying and protecting the habitat needed to ensure the species persists at any given location.

1. To ensure protection^{Go to Footnote7} for the known locations (and new locations) and habitats of Warty Jumping-slug.

2. To assess and mitigate the extent of current threats (IUCN-CMP Threats 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) at all locations in B.C.

3. To address knowledge gaps (e.g., habitat requirements, range extent within Vancouver Island) for Warty Jumping-slug.

The following actions have been categorized by the action groups of the B.C. Conservation Framework (B.C. Ministry of Environment 2010). Status of the action group for this species is given in parentheses.

Warty Jumping-slug is recommended for inclusion in the category of "species at risk" under the provincial Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA), which enables habitat management tools as per the Identified Wildlife Management Strategy. Protection measures under this Act include the establishment of Wildlife Habitat Areas to help protect the species' habitat from forestry threats on provincial Crown land.

Locations of Warty Jumping-slug within the Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are afforded protection through the legal provisions of the BC Park Act and the Canada National Parks Act, respectively. However, within protected areas, further work may be needed to address habitat needs and threats at the specific locations where Warty Jumping-slugs occur.

Within regional parks, collaborative work is needed with parks planning to ensure Warty Jumping-slug locations and associated habitat are incorporated into management plans, future recreational development within the park, and vegetation management. Habitat management for Warty Jumping-slug at each location may require location-specific plans, or may be able to be incorporated with existing management plans (such as park plans, land use plans, forest stewardship plans, development plans, and other similar planning documents). Location-specific management plans would incorporate threat mitigation (such as impacts from recreational activities, vegetation management, and habitat modification).

On private lands and in regional parks, protection of occupied locations is to be accomplished through stewardship actions. To successfully protect many species at risk in B.C., voluntary initiatives by all Canadians will be important to help maintain areas of natural ecosystems that support these species. This stewardship approach will cover many different kinds of activities, including: following guidelines or best management practices to support species at risk; voluntarily protecting important areas of habitat; conservation covenants on property titles; and eco-gifting or sale of property (in whole or in part) to protect certain ecosystems or species at risk. Both government and non-governmental organizations have successfully conserved lands in the province.

Several known locations and much potential habitat for Warty Jumping-slug are on private lands (Table 1) used for forestry or other purposes. Stewardship is an essential part of this management plan and will involve engaging landowners and managers in voluntarily protection measures.

Specific research on habitat requirements, clarification of threats, and better information on distribution is needed to address more effective protection measures for Warty Jumping-slug. This information will allow the development of improved best management practices guidelines.

Inventory for Warty Jumping-slug within unchecked suitable habitats on southern Vancouver Island is needed. The first step is to map all potential habitats within the historic range of the species and assess habitat suitability using orthophotos, satellite imagery, forest cover maps, and biophysical mapping. The second step is to generate a prioritized list of locations for inventory based on habitat suitability. The third step is to conduct field surveys at an appropriate time of the year (spring/early summer and fall) and under suitable moist conditions. Field visits are also required to locate key microhabitat features, such as patches of moist older forest, riparian areas, and locations with deep forest litter, and to confirm habitat suitability. Multiple surveys per year are recommended to increase chances of detecting rare species. Initially, the surveys are to target federal and provincial Crown lands. If new locations are found, contact with the respective landowners should be initiated and best management practices applied.

Inventory, monitoring, and habitat assessment can be completed through a multi-species approach that includes all gastropods. Inventory for Warty Jumping-slug can incorporate searches for other gastropods at risk including the Oregon Forestsnail (Allogona townsendiana), Puget Oregonian Snail (Cryptomastix devia), Blue-gray Taildropper slug (Prophysaon coeruleum), and Dromedary Jumping-slug (Hemophilia dromedarius) as well as introduced gastropods.

Selected habitat features and populations of Warty Jumping-slug within protected locations (e.g., within parks) need to be monitored to assess effectiveness of management actions.

The following performance indicators provide a way to define and measure progress toward achieving the population and distribution goal and recovery objectives. Performance measures are listed below for each objective.

The successful implementation of recovery actions for Warty Jumping-slug will be indicated through monitoring of locations and habitat trends through time. Warty Jumping-slug may have an annual life cycle and therefore population sizes may vary from year to year and overall population (on a scale of decades) may vary within areas of suitable habitat. Population monitoring will allow for an indication of possible extirpation at a given location, changes in area of extent at a given location, and whether the number of extant locations is stable or increasing. The management plan will be reviewed in 5 years to assess progress and to identify additional approaches.

The performance indicators presented below provide a way to define and measure progress toward achieving the population and distribution goal and management objectives. Performance measures are listed below for each objective.

Objective 1: To secure protection^{Go to Footnote 8} for the known locations (and new locations) and habitats of Warty Jumping-slug.

• Recommend Warty Jumping-slug be a priority for listing as Identified Wildlife under the provincial Forest and Range Practices Act.

• Stewardship agreements and/or covenants have been established for known (and any new) Warty Jumping-slug locations on regional district and municipal lands by 2016.

• Where appropriate, protection measures and threat mitigation has been initiated for all locations through existing legislative protection (e.g., Protected Areas, Wildlife Habitat Areas, landscape management plans) and local government bylaws and planning (e.g., official community plans, development permit areas) by 2016.

• Attempt contact with private landowners with occupied or potential habitat by 2016.

Objective 2: To assess and mitigate the extent of the current threats (IUCN-CMP Threats 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) at all locations in B.C.

• Best management practices guidelines for Warty Jumping-slug have been drafted for each landowner or land manager, outlining the threats applicable to each location by 2016.

• Assist landowners with identifying actions that minimize primary threats to Warty Jumping-slug, link with other species at risk (if possible) and identify management actions that allow for multi-species approaches, by 2016.

Objective 3: To address knowledge gaps (e.g., habitat requirements, range extent within Vancouver Island) for Warty Jumping-slug.

• An inventory schedule has been determined for surveying Warty Jumping-slug in potential habitats in B.C. by 2014.

• A standardized inventory protocol for monitoring presence and habitat assessment of Warty Jumping-slug is developed by 2014.

• Inventory of Warty Jumping-slug potential habitat in B.C. has been initiated by 2015.

Approximately 24 species are known to inhabit forest similar to Warty Jumping-slug. Integrating Warty Jumping-slug habitat protection into measures that protect these additional species will allow for habitat connectivity and potential future habitat.

Coordinated, ecosystem-based approaches are needed to ensure Warty Jumping-slug recovery actions are compatible with activities for other species and ecosystems of southern Vancouver Island.

Survey and habitat assessments for Warty Jumping-slug may increase knowledge about other gastropods at risk^{Go to Footnote 9} :

• Dromedary Jumping-slug (Hemphillia dromedarius) (Endangered 2003), which is known from similar habitat types on southern Vancouver Island.

• Evening Fieldslug (Deroceras hesperium) (Data Deficient 2003)

• Threaded Vertigo (Nearctula sp. 1) (Special Concern 2010)

• Oregon Forestsnail (Allogona townsendiana) (Endangered 2002)

Plant species that may benefit as a result of recovery efforts for Warty Jumping-slug:⁸

• Scouler's corydalis (Corydalis scouleri) (Threatened 2001)

• phantom orchid (Cephalanthera austiniae) (Threatened 2000)

• coastal wood fern (Dryopteris arguta) (Special Concern 2001)

• streambank lupine (Lupinus rivularis) (Endangered 2002)

• Burke, T., J.S. Applegarth and T.R.Weasma 1999. Management recommendations for survey and manage terrestrial mollusks 2.0. Edited by N. Duncan. October 1999. PDF available at www.or.blm.gov/surveyandmanage/MR/TM4Species/2000-015.1.pdf

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Ovaska, Kristiina. 2003–2011. Senior researcher. Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd., Victoria, BC.
Sopuck, Lennart. 2003–2011. Senior researcher. Biolinx Environmental Research Ltd., Victoria, BC.