The fresh water flatworm, planaria, is a nonparasitic worm found in almost any body of fresh water. They prefer to stay out of the light, feeding on the bottom of lakes and ponds. Flatworms are hermaphrodites -- there is no distinction between male and female and all flatworms can lay eggs. Most types of flatworms are predators and will eat aquatic worms, amoeba, decomposing animal matter and other flatworms. Their mouth is located in the middle of their body. When they find food, they extend a sucker out of their mouth, like a straw, and suck it up. They can only suck up jelly-like substances through their mouths. If you are feeding flatworms to other flatworms, the feeder flatworms need to be the right consistency.
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Dish soap
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Instructions
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1
Put the feeder flatworms on the cutting board. Using a sharp knife, mince the feeder flatworms into a very fine consistency. Cut crosswise and lengthwise so the mince is very fine.
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2
Lay the knife flat-side down over the minced flatworms. Using the heel of your hand, pound the minced flatworms with the flat side of the knife until they are pulped to the consistency of jelly or puree.
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3
Scrape together the feeder worm puree using the sharp side of the blade and feed the puree to your other worms. Wash the knife and cutting board thoroughly after use with hot water and soap.
