New Guinea Flatworm
Platydemus manokwari
The adult New Guinea flatworm is a nocturnal land planarian found in humid gardens, forests, plantations, and disturbed tropical habitats. It is a specialized predator of land snails and other small invertebrates, tracking them at close range and feeding with an extendable pharynx. Its flattened body, mucus coating, and habit of hiding under debris make it difficult to notice until prey is already in reach. This species is notorious as an invasive predator because it can reduce native snail populations on islands and in greenhouse habitats.
- Type
- Stealth
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- ?
- New Guinea Flatworm