Scientists discover pets are helping an invasive flatworm spread
Science Daily
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Scientists have uncovered an unexpected factor contributing to the spread of an invasive flatworm in France: household pets. A study published in the journal PeerJ reveals that dogs and cats can carry these worms on their fur, aiding their movement from one location to another. This finding adds a new layer to our understanding of how invasive species spread, particularly through human-related activities beyond traditional plant trade and gardening.
The research, conducted by scientists from the Institute of Systematics, Evolution, and Biodiversity (ISYEB) in France and James Cook University in Australia, analyzed over a decade of citizen science data. This long-term study highlighted that flatworms were often found clinging to pets, indicating that domestic animals can act as unintentional carriers. Among the ten invasive flatworm species in France, only Caenoplana variegata was linked to this transport method.
Caenoplana variegata stands out due to its unique traits: it produces sticky mucus, which helps it attach to fur and other surfaces, and it can reproduce without a mate, enhancing its ability to establish new populations. These characteristics, combined with pets' mobility, make them significant contributors to the global spread of this invasive species.
This discovery underscores the importance of understanding how everyday activities, like pet ownership, can inadvertently impact ecosystems. For readers interested in science and environmental conservation, this research highlights the need for awareness and caution when it comes to invasive species. Pets may unknowingly play a role in spreading these organisms, potentially disrupting local biodiversity and生态平衡. Addressing such pathways is crucial in mitigating the spread of invasive species and preserving ecological balance.
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/14/2026