I know I read somewhere that someone might think that Sligs are based on Hermit Crabs, while looking through wikipedia I saw a few quotes that match the Slig descriptions;
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hermit_crab
-"The tip of the hermit crab's abdomen is adapted to clasp strongly onto the columella of the snail shell."
This quote seems to explain why the Slig has a tail, and how they could possibly hold themselves in their pants. Gravity might have a part as well, but it would make sense that the tail actually holds the pants in place somewhat as well.
-"For example, Coenobita clypeatus is commonly listed as having a 20 year lifespan"
Sure it might be co-incidence, but thats the same average lifespan given for a Slig as well!
-"In general, hermit crabs are social animals and should be kept in groups"
Sligs are social and like to be in groups!
-"Hermit crabs MUST be separated by size when shipped in quantities. Larger hermit crabs CAN eat smaller ones (yes they are cannibals!)."
Could this possibly explain the Skillya soup reference?
I find it interesting that there are more then a couple of references with other animals. Lorne obviously knows quite a bit about animals so I wouldn't be suprised. What do you think?