They’re invasive – toxic – and just plain gross!
We first told you about Hammerhead flatworms in Ontario last summer. First spotted in the province in 2017, hammerhead worms have flattened bodies, a dark central stripe, and fan-shaped heads. This creepy creature can grow up to three feet long and produce a neurotoxin used to paralyze prey, including earthworms, and there is the potential for harm to humans and pets if these worms are touched. The paralyzing toxin is made of the same molecule as that of a puffer fish—one of the most poisonous in the world.
Hammerhead flatworms are an invasive species from Asia and gets its nickname from the flat shape of its head. Sightings of these worms tend to spike in the damp spring and fall months and they have already been seen in numerous locations across Ontario this spring. Experts say the worms are being spread by plants and soil being moved from one place to another.
As carnivorous cannibals, the worms eat snails, slugs, earthworms – and each other! They also feed on the larvae of grounding pollinators, altering soil composition and posing a threat to farms and gardens. Since Hammerhead worms don’t have predators, pathogens or parasites, their population can grow fast.
While the toxin quantity that Hammerhead flatworms produce is very small, there is concern that the chemical can cause illness and even death if ingested by pets or small children, so seek emergency attention immediately. Humans handling these worms may suffer skin irritation, and experts advise not to directly touch a hammerhead. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and don’t touch your eyes if you do come into contact with the worm
The Lake of Bays Garden Centre recently posted this information on social media saying that the worm has been spotted in the 705 region.
If you do come across a hammerhead worm, handle it with care. Avoid touching them with bare skin and dispose of them in a sealed container after killing them with soapy water, vinegar, or salt. Do not cut them. If cut, they can regenerate into multiple new worms. One of the ways some reproduce is by asexual fragmentation, so you could compound the problem if you cut up the worm in an attempt to kill it.
If you have found one hammerhead worm, there are probably more, so remain vigilant. Examine your garden, particularly in the early morning after a rain when they’re likely to be easily found on the surface.
You can report sightings to the province’s invasive species hotline, 1-800-563-7711, or online at the Invasive Species in Ontario project. Additionally, you can use the EDDMapS Ontario app on your mobile device. Be sure to take a photo to include in your report.
