The biggest threat these flatworms pose is to the eco-system. These New Guinea Flatworms have no natural predators they multiply and destroy everything from snails and lizards to native trees and vegetation.
New Guinea Flatworms is now categorized as one of the world’s worst invasive species. An invasive species is a plant, fungus, or animal species that is not native to a specific location and It has a tendency to spread to a degree believed to cause damage to the environment, human economy or human health.
The worst is these worms don’t need a mate to reproduce. A single worm can multiply into dozens
New Guinea Flatworms may look harmless, but mix in a rat or two and a person could be affected by a deadly disease striking the brain and spinal cord. That’s why officials require help finding them.
According to Roy Beckford an agricultural specialist:
“They’re a dark worm with a dorsal orange stripe down the center of their back,”
“It can actually cause problems on your skin because it actually vomits up this caustic substance that can cause problems.
“The worm infects rats and that’s when it can be passed on to humans, potentially causing meningitis and other horrible diseases.”
Although there is no scientific evidence that could support the claim of Mr Beckford it would be best not to touch it or get contact with it once you see it.,