The arrival of ‘hammerhead worm‘, known scientifically as Bipalium kewensein Brazil is generating concerns among biologists, who warn of the potential impacts of this invasive species on national biodiversity.
Originally from Southeast Asia, this animal, with its peculiar rounded, hammer-shaped head, represents not only a threat due to its destructive power, but also due to its capacity for regeneration and multiplication.
A difficult invader to combat: is the worm ‘immortal’?
Henrique Abrahão, a renowned biologist, warned about the presence of this worm in Brazilian soil and highlighted its destructive nature.
Feeding on small animals such as molluscs and smaller worms, the worm is a notorious predator, even attacking members of its own species.
His most worrying peculiarity is his ability to regenerate and multiply, making him virtually ‘immortal’.
Unlike many animals, cutting the hammerhead worm in half is not an effective solution. On the contrary, this action can result in the formation of two such parasites.
The regeneration process is facilitated by a toxin present in the worm, called tetrodotoxin, which is also found in puffer fish, known for its lethal toxicity.
This characteristic makes the presence of Bipalium kewense a serious threat to the balance of the ecosystem.
The global spread of the worm
Although it is native to Southeast Asia, the Bipalium kewense It has spread throughout the world, being accidentally transported on ships.
In addition to Brazil, it has already been identified in places such as North America, Australia, the Caribbean islands, South America, Africa and Madagascar.
Its presence has already been detected in the United States and some European countries, raising serious concerns due to its resistance and difficulty in controlling it.
The alert issued by biologists highlights the need for monitoring and preventive measures to contain the spread of the worm in Brazil.
Understanding their ecology and potential impact is crucial to preserving biodiversity and maintaining harmony in our ecosystems locations.
