
Community identification
New Guinea Flatworm
Platydemus manokwari
- Order & Family
- Order: Tricladida, Family: Geoplanidae
- Size
- 40 mm to 65 mm in length
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.