Hammerhead flatworms could pose scary new threat to Houston area

These toxic and aggressive predators can grow up to 18 inches, making them appear snake-like, and prefer hot and humid environments, so Houston provides the perfect habitat.The worms secrete chemicals through their skin which can irritate human skin if you touch them.

Hammerhead flatworms are predatory and carnivorous as they have been known to eat earthworms and other insects.Flatworms can regenerate. If you cut off a portion, within 10 days, it will begin to form a head and grow into a new flatworm. Scary.To kill it, The Texas Invasive Species Institute suggests a combination of citrus oil and salt or vinegar alone, if it’s put directly on the flatworm. If you put it in a Ziploc bag, it will ensure the creature does not crawl away.

Remember to use gloves, a paper towel, or a stick when handling live flatworms. Wash your hands with warm soapy water, and rinsed in alcohol or a standard hand disinfectant. If you happen to come across a flatworm, TISI is requesting distributional data. Take a picture along with coordinates for distribution and send an email to

United States Latest News, United States Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Texans’ Roy Lopez, Jimmie Ward, Jalen Pitre, several others ‘give back’ at Texans’ annual Volunteer DayHouston Texans hold 11th annual Texans Care Volunteer Day at Houston Food Bank and at AAMA George I. Sanchez Bright Beginnings Center in Houston.
Source: KPRC2 - 🏆 80. / 68 Read more »

Jim Cramer says 'brace yourself' for week ahead as lawmakers inch toward debt ceiling dealCNBC's Jim Cramer told investors on Friday to brace themselves for the week ahead as they wait for a debt ceiling resolution.
Source: CNBC - 🏆 12. / 72 Read more »

Some of the things I remember about the great Jim Brown: Mary Kay CabotMary Kay Cabot shares her memories of Jim Brown.
Source: clevelanddotcom - 🏆 301. / 63 Read more »

How to Brace Yourself for—And Get Through—A Manic EpisodeMaking a plan when you’re feeling more like yourself can keep you safer and happier in the long run.
Source: SELFmagazine - 🏆 478. / 51 Read more »

Derbyshire hospice gives cancer patient wedding to rememberIllness forced Heather and Richard Odams to bring the big day forward but they had 'a lovely time'.
Source: bbchealth - 🏆 143. / 63 Read more »

Remember When John Carpenter Made a Hitchcockian TV Movie?The director's TV movie about a high-rise stalker was once considered his 'lost film.'
Source: Collider - 🏆 1. / 98 Read more »