Invertebrates: Mysteries Beneath the Soil
Discover the astonishing life of land planarians in this visual journey
By Museo de La Plata
Division of Invertebrate Zoology
Land Planarian Species
Land planarians are free-living (non-parasitic) flatworms belonging to the phylum Platyhelminthes. We invite you to explore a few of these extraordinary creatures...
Imbira negrita
The genus name, Imbira, originates from the Tupi language, referencing a strip of bark that peels away from trees—an allusion to the flat, ribbon-like form of these worms.
Paraba multicolor
Like other members of its family, it stands out for the striking longitudinal stripes and bands of vivid color running along its body.
Paraba smaragdina
The specific epithet comes from the Latin smaragdus, meaning "emerald," named after its brilliant emerald-green hue.
Obama maculatentis by Lisandro NegreteMuseo de La Plata
Why Are Land Planarians Important?
They serve as apex invertebrate predators in soil ecosystems, feeding on other small organisms to help maintain natural balance.
Division of Invertebrate Zoology
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