Bug Identifier
New Guinea Flatworm
Community identification

New Guinea Flatworm

Platydemus manokwari

Order & Family
Order: Tricladida, Family: Geoplanidae
Size
40 mm to 65 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Tropical and subtropical regions, often found in soil, under leaf litter, or on pavements during damp conditions.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; primarily preys on land snails, slugs, and other soil invertebrates.

Behavior Patterns

They are nocturnal predators that track prey using chemical trails. They exhibit a slow, gliding movement and can survive for long periods without food.

Risks & Benefits

Invasive species that poses a significant threat to native snail populations and biodiversity. They may carry the rat lungworm parasite, which is a risk to human health if handled or accidentally ingested.