Flatworm

Statistics

Taxonomic order: Tricladida

Length: 0.5 to 4 cm

Average life span: 3 years

When To See

About all year, but much more active in warmer weather.

Photo credit: Lifeinfreshwater.net, Iain Reid

Habitat

Flatworms feed on a range of food sources such as other invertebrates, vegetation and bits of detritus on the riverbed. Some are particularly fond of eating aquatic snails and have proved an ally in reducing the numbers of invasive snail species. Some species are fairly tolerant of pollution, and generally prefer slower flowing areas of water.

Unlike earthworms, these creatures heal and turn into new worms from each piece if damaged. They can also regenerate their cells and stop the aging process.

How To Identify

Soft and flattened unsegmented body, beige-brown in colour. They have an arrow-shaped head with distinct visible eyes.

Seen It?

Been kicking about in your local river and come across one of these invertebrates? Not sure? Share it with us at trust@forthriverstrust.org, we enjoy chatting about inverts with you.