With terrible flair, this predatory flatworm chases and then destroys the good guys or earthworms. It is only found in tropical and subtropical areas.
The worm uses sensing organs on the underside of its characteristic hammer-shaped head to locate prey, which it then pins down with its head and body. The predator’s jaw widens halfway down its body. After then, the rear of the mouth expands forward to form a sheet that clamps around the earthworm.
Digestive enzymes are created, converting the earthworm’s body into a tasty soup that the predator then consumes. After the process is completed, any undigested material exits the worm in the same manner in which it came. Yes, the mouth of the hammerhead worm and anus are the same thing.
The hammerhead worm, like all great Netflix villains, is toxic. Tetrodotoxin is a neurotoxin that at least two species produce and use to sedate prey that may weigh up to 100 times their weight.
They are also unyielding.
The tough worms regenerate after being sliced apart, giving the impression that they are immortal… Unless you know the hammerhead worm’s Achilles heel is a quick plunge in some soapy water.
They may not be as frightening after all.!!!
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