Invasive worm with ‘cobra-like’ head seen in MS, experts say. Here’s why it’s dangerous
An invasive species of land flatworm, with cobra-shaped heads and slimy bodies have been spotted across Mississippi, and experts are warning residents not to touch them.
“Be on the lookout for the Hammerhead Worm,” experts at the Mississippi State University Warren County Extension Office said in a May 28 post on Facebook.
Here’s what to know if you see a hammerhead worm in Mississippi.
What are hammerhead worms?
Hammerhead worms are an invasive species of land flatworms that feed on earthworms and slugs, according to the Mississippi State University Extension.
They have flat, long bodies that can reach up to a foot in length and have “cobra-like” heads, experts said.
“So far, there have been no indications of flatworms having any major adverse effects on earthworm populations in the United States,” experts said.
Where do hammerhead worms live in MS?
Hammerhead worms aren’t native to the U.S., but they have been here since 1981, according to the Warren County Extension Office.
There aren’t many of these worms in Mississippi, but they prefer greenhouses or the warmer, southern parts of the state, experts at the Mississippi State University Extension said.
“Like slugs, they are primarily active at night, or on moist, cloudy days, spending their days hiding in some dark, secluded space,” experts said.
Are hammerhead worms dangerous?
While hammerhead worms aren’t fatal for humans or animals, some species produce neurotoxins that can be dangerous, and their mucus can sometimes be a skin irritant, experts said.
This is why people should always wear gloves when handling these types of worms, according to experts.
What to do if you see one
Here’s what Mississippians should do if they see a hammerhead worm, according to Jermaine Perier, MSU Extension Entomologist for Vegetables, Fruits and Nuts:
- Don’t ever touch the worm without gloves as their mucus can be an irritant and produce neurotoxins
- Dispose of the whole worm, and do not cut it as it can regenerate from its body parts
- Use an airtight container to contain the worm
- Report worm sighting
How to kill a hammerhead worm
These are a few ways to kill a hammerhead worm after capturing it in an airtight container, according to Perier:
- Add salt to the container
- Add soapy water to the container
- Leave the container in direct sunlight
- Soak the worm in ethanol, alcohol or hand sanitizer
This can take between one and two hours, experts said.
How to report a hammerhead worm sighting
The Warren County Extension Office recommends reporting sightings of hammerhead worms at EDDMaps.
Reporting sightings can help track populations and monitor the spread of these invasive worms, experts said.
