Land Planarian (hammerhead flatworm) (Family Geoplanidae) on May 3, 2021
Originally reported as Land Mollusk or Worm (unknown species) (various)
Submitter does not have a specimen
Description of specimen
Bipalium adventitium
Commentary
Thank you for your report! Bipalium adventitum is quite likely, though there are other flathead planarians in Oregon with similar characteristics. There are currently no actions being taken about these worms, but your observation helps us understand their distribution in the state and becomes a resource for future work. Best, -Lindsey
Lindsey Wise
July 29, 2021, 8:21 a.m.
Resources
Several species of flathead worms have become invasive in the US. They can be difficult to tell apart and are not well-studied. Species reported from Oregon include Bipalium adventitum, Bipalium kewense, and Caenoplana coerulea among others.
Location
Corner of urban yard which was covered with compost adjacent to area covered with arborist chips on one side and gravel on the other, underneath 1 gallon nursery plant pot early to mid April.
Expert Reviewer
Mrs. Lindsey Wise Oregon Biodiversity Information Center, inr.oregonstate.edu/orbic Oregon iMapInvasives Institute for Natural Resources Portland State University
-Lindsey
Lindsey Wise
July 29, 2021, 8:21 a.m.