Microplana


Microplana is a genus of land planarians found in Europe and Africa.

Description

Species of the genus Microplana are characterized by having an elongate, rounded body and generally only two eyes. The copulatory apparatus has a permanent conical penis with a muscular bulbus projecting into a short atrium. A genito-intestinal canal or a bursa copulatrix is usually present, connecting the intestine to the female atrium.

Ecology

Species of Microplana are adapted to different habitats. Most species occur in temperate forests, including beech, oak, pine and mixed forests, and seem to prefer neutral to basic soils, with pH values above 6. However, there are species adapted to drier habitats, such as the African savanna.
All Microplana species are carnivores, feeding on other invertebrates. Some are active predators, while others are mainly scavengers.

Species

The genus Microplana includes the following species: