Rhynchomesostoma rostratum


Rhynchomesostoma rostratum is a species of rhabdocoel flatworms in the family Typhloplanidae.

Description

The animal is 1.5 to 3.5 mm long and transparent. The anterior end is retractable.

Taxonomy

It was described by Otto Friedrich Müller in 1774 as Fasciola rostrata.

Distribution and habitat

The species has been recorded in Europe, India, Kenya, Siberia, and the US.

Ecology and behavior

It preys on oligochaetes, cladocerans, copepods, other microturbellarians, and mosquito larvae and other aquatic insects. It is preyed upon by the flatworm Phaenocora unipunctata.