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The flatworm menace |
The major threat facing Partula snails today is the invasive flatworm Platydemus manokwari. This has the potential to wipe out many of the remaining tree snail species. Flatworm ecology is not only an issue for snail conservation; flatworms are fast becoming one of the most significant invasive groups. In every country new invasive flatworms are being encountered all the time, and at increasing frequency. |
Some of these, like the bizarre hammer-headed Bipalium kewense are known to be predators of earthworms. The diets of most other species are not known. These flatworms have the potential to cause significant changes to ecosystems; snail predators may eliminate the large algal grazers and fungus consumers, resulting in an increase in plant disease. Earthworm predators may have a big impact on the organisms that contribute most to soil health through drawing in nutrients, changing structure and providing aeration. These are all possibilities, but at present all we know is that the predators are here. We now need to know what they are doing. |
My research on Platydemus seeks to predict how significant their impact on snails will be and where they will spread. Are there parts of high islands that may remain Platydemus-free? How far across continental North America will they spread now that they have arrived in Florida? Specifically I am seeking to find out: |
Compiled by Justin Gerlach: contact
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