Texas gardeners warned not to slice hammerhead flatworm that preys on earthworms

A TikTok highlighted a strange, shovel-headed worm turning up in Texas and elsewhere.

The wildlife education clip by Evan Abboud (@esa.wildlife) centered on the hammerhead flatworm, a predator that has become an unnerving sight in yards and gardens across the United States.

Here's what to know

Abboud identified the hammerhead flatworm, or Bipalium kewense, as invasive.

@esa.wildlife This is the hammerhead flatworm (Bipalium kewense), an invasive species here in Texas and parts of the United States. However, after further research it's definitely not one of the worst invasive species we have here, but can still have an impact on native ecosystems. #Flatworm #invertebrate #ecology #worm #wildlife ♬ original sound - Evan Abboud

The video did not frame the worm as the most serious invasive threat people may encounter, but Abboud wrote that the species "can still have an impact on native ecosystems."

In the video, he noted one of the worms had "massacred" an earthworm in his parents' backyard. Hammerhead flatworms are known to prey on earthworms, which can have a negative effect on soil.

"You're supposed to kill these on sight in the U.S. FYI, y'all," a commenter said.

More background

Humans can play a role in spreading invasive species. But killing the hammerhead flatworm is not straightforward, as Abboud explained. 

For one thing, touching one isn't advised since they contain toxic slime that can irritate skin. Cutting them up can actually exacerbate the problem, as they will regenerate in parts.

Thus, Abboud advocated using salt or a similar method to make sure you don't create more hammerhead worms. 

The concern is less about sudden, dramatic destruction than gradual ecological disruption. Not every invasive organism causes the same degree of harm, but that does not make it harmless.

What can be done?

Handling the situation like Abboud did is the way to go. Responsibly killing invasive hammerhead flatworms can protect valuable native species such as earthworms.

Make sure not to touch one of the worms with bare hands before securing it in a container or bag. Adding salt and rubbing alcohol can avoid the pitfalls of cutting up the species.

Abboud sized up the creature with a mixture of curiosity and awe. "That is freaky. Very interesting," he said.

Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.