They multiply by intertwining and dividing! They have been seen in many parts of Germany, and the notification phones are not silent

Increasing numbers of "carnivorous" flatworm cases are being reported from various parts of Germany, particularly North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW). The previously unseen Australian species Caenoplana variegata was discovered by herpetologist Dr. Frank Glaw.

Dr. Glaw, head of the Department of Herpetology at the State Collection of Zoology in Munich, trained in Cologne and completed his doctorate at the University of Bonn.

"When I examined a photo of a planaria from my brother-in-law's garden near Korschenbroich, I realised that the species was Caenoplana variegata. It had not yet been recorded in Germany," the NRW-based scientist told the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.

Following the initial detection, additional findings came from several districts in NRW, particularly Cologne, Jülich and Korschenbroich. Confirmed detections were reported immediately after in Essen, Berlin, the area around Leipzig, the Bavarian city of Landshut and Rhineland-Palatinate. The highest number of cases was in Baden-Württemberg, where one person counted more than 30 worms in just two square metres. "A focus of spread may have formed in southern Baden-Württemberg," says Glaw.

Overlooked for generations

Dr. Glaw believes that the cases became visible with the increase in garden excavations in May, but that these worms have been neglected for years. “We still don’t know their true prevalence. The season has just started and we expect citizens to send their worms, along with photos and location information, to [email protected],” he adds.

“Little Monsters” that can reproduce

Caenoplana variegata stands out for its unique reproductive abilities: A worm that breaks apart can create a new individual from each piece. “They reproduce by intertwining and dividing. They are very inquisitive and resilient creatures,” says Glaw.

There is a risk of poisoning

These flatworms, which hunt for earthworms, snails and bedbugs underground, also secrete poisonous mucus containing tetrodotoxin. The risk is low if human skin is intact; however, allergic reactions and contact with open wounds can be dangerous. It is recommended that pets do not eat these worms, as cases of vomiting have been reported after cats have consumed them.

The spread of Caenoplana variegata, which is rapidly multiplying in nature, is considered a threat that needs to be monitored in terms of both ecosystem balance and biosecurity. Experts emphasize that field research conducted with citizen participation is of critical importance.