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Non-native land flatworms

Non-native land flatworms have been accidentally introduced to the UK in imported pot plants and newly arrived species continue to be discovered. Once introduced these flatworms can reproduce rapidly, cannot be eradicated, and pose a risk to native soil invertebrates such as earthworms by feeding on them.

Scientists have found that in some areas, non-native flatworms can reduce local earthworm populations by 20% – this could have a huge impact on soil health and agriculture, as well as our native soil wildlife.

By adding your findings to this survey, you will help us to better understand how non-native flatworms are spreading around the UK, and you may alert us to a newly arrived species.

For more information about non-native flatworms, including an ID guide, please visit https://www.buglife.org.uk/campaigns/potwatch/
 

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