What does the leopard flatworm eat?

Leopard flatworms (Pseudoceros dimidiatus) are carnivorous and feed primarily on other flatworms, including planarians and polyclads. They are known to be opportunistic feeders, meaning they will also consume other small invertebrates they encounter, such as sea anemones, hydroids, and even small fish.

Their feeding process is fascinating. They use their proboscis – a long, muscular tube with a mouth at its tip – to suck up their prey. They don't have a digestive system like many animals, instead relying on extracellular digestion. They release enzymes from their proboscis to break down their prey outside of their bodies, then absorb the nutrients through their skin.

So, the leopard flatworm's diet can be summarized as:

* Planarians and other flatworms (main food source)

* Sea anemones and hydroids

* Small fish (occasionally)

It's worth noting that the leopard flatworm is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world. This is because they can outcompete native flatworm populations, which can disrupt the local ecosystem.