I found this neat worm, about 4 inches long with what at first was a arrowhead shaped head. As it moves, the head morphs into weird shapes. It is striped along the length of the body, no visible eyespots. I found it in a very moist area on dirt under a rock. I hope the picture works. Took it with my "Digital Blue microscope". Neatest thing I ever bought. Sold as a child's toy, but is a bug lover's dream. Sells for less than $50 including shipping.
1. "RE: Ribbon Flat worm?"
In response to message #0
You have a Land Planarian (Bipalium kewense). They get spread around in pots in the nursery trade. They eat earthworms, slugs, insect larvae, etc. They are thought to have be introduced into the USA from Indo-China. It's an organism that needs a cool, damp environment. In gardens they're usually found under rocks or leaf litter.
2. "RE: Ribbon Flat worm?"
In response to message #1
If I am able to keep him alive and well, how long in inches is he likely to grow, already being around four inches? Do you think he would feast on the indian meal moth larvae that are plaguing my house? If so, he would be as welcome as a ladybug in an aphid infested garden.
4. "RE: Ribbon Flat worm?"
In response to message #3
I ended up putting the planarian in my Puerto Rican Snail habitat. It has many tiny slugs and other damp habitat-loving organisms. I figured he would be happiest there. I don't have to worry about feeding him, since the slugs and small things reproduce on their own. Of course, I don't get to see him unless I go digging around. I am happy to have a peek here and there and know he is happy.
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