Is Your Pet a "Taxi" for This Invasive Predator?

Описание: When your cat or dog comes inside from the garden, they might be bringing in more than just dirt. 🪱

For years, scientists were baffled by how slow-moving, invasive land flatworms were spreading so quickly between neighborhoods. The old theory was potted plants—but a new study using "Citizen Science" has revealed a surprising culprit: Our Pets.

In this video, we explore how the invasive flatworm Caenoplana variegata uses sticky mucus to hitch rides on cats and dogs, traveling miles to conquer new ecosystems. We also explain why this is a disaster for soil health (RIP Earthworms) and how you can check your furry friends to stop the spread.

Key Topics Covered:

The Mystery: How do slow worms jump from garden to garden?

The Discovery: How pet owners in France cracked the case.

The "Superpowers": Why this specific worm is the perfect hitchhiker (Sticky Mucus + Asexual Reproduction).

The Threat: Why these worms are dangerous to your garden's ecosystem.

The Solution: When and how to check your pet's fur.

Timestamps: The mystery of the traveling worm What is a Terrestrial Flatworm? The Discovery: Worms on Cats & Dogs The "Pet Taxi" Network (18 Billion km/year!) Why this specific worm? (The Sticky Mucus) How to check your pet & remove the worm

Disclaimer: This video discusses invasive species and biology. It is for educational purposes only.

#InvasiveSpecies #Pets #Cats #Dogs #Gardening #Flatworms #Ecology #CitizenScience #Biodiversity