Diving in Bali. Interesting facts: Marine flatworms
Let's talk about worms. Yes, for sure, just about worms. When mentioned on land, the word “worms” evokes not very pleasant associations; but marine worms, generally, are very attractive and bring out positive emotions. In particular, we are referring to marine flatworms. At present, there are about 25,000 known species. During diving in Bali often it is most likely to meet the representatives of the class Turbellarian worms or Turbellaria. These are free-living organisms. They range in size from microscopic to several dozens of centimeters. They really are flattened and smooth and have leaf-like bodies.
Marine flatworms live between corals, sponges or under stones. Marine flatworms feed mainly as predators on smaller animals or their carcasses. They have a pair of antennae on the head that help the flatworms to sense objects and smell as they move forward. Marine flatworms have well-developed organs of touch, chemical sensation and balance, and as for free-living ones, they have a well-developed organ of vision. They move by crawling or swimming. The lower part of marine flatworms is covered with cilia that gently tremble and push the flatworms forward; movements of marine flatworms can be complex and diverse. So, when moved in the water column, it seems that they wave wings gracefully.
The vast majority of flatworms are hermaphrodites (they have both male and female sexual organs). Some of them are able to reproduce by dividing in half; then each half regenerates into a new flatworm. They can also regenerate 6/7 of their body.
Marine flatworms are very brightly colored and show incredible colors providing the ability to disguise themselves.
Marine flatworms live between corals, sponges or under stones. Marine flatworms feed mainly as predators on smaller animals or their carcasses. They have a pair of antennae on the head that help the flatworms to sense objects and smell as they move forward. Marine flatworms have well-developed organs of touch, chemical sensation and balance, and as for free-living ones, they have a well-developed organ of vision. They move by crawling or swimming. The lower part of marine flatworms is covered with cilia that gently tremble and push the flatworms forward; movements of marine flatworms can be complex and diverse. So, when moved in the water column, it seems that they wave wings gracefully.
The vast majority of flatworms are hermaphrodites (they have both male and female sexual organs). Some of them are able to reproduce by dividing in half; then each half regenerates into a new flatworm. They can also regenerate 6/7 of their body.
Marine flatworms are very brightly colored and show incredible colors providing the ability to disguise themselves.
