Every now and again, Americans get word that a new killer invertebrate is invading our country: killer bees, murder hornets , fire ants, the list goes on and on. It keeps the news spicy.

Hammerhead flatworms — commonly called hammerhead worms — occasionally make headlines because they aren't native to many regions and are toxic, aggressive predators. Their slimy, leech -like bodies with anvil-shaped heads, resembling a hammerhead shark, add to their menacing reputation.

What Are Hammerhead Worms?

Hammerhead worms are an invasive species of terrestrial flatworm from the genus Bipalium . They can grow up to 18 inches (46 centimeters) long, sometimes leading people to mistake them for snakes .

Native to tropical regions, such as Southeast Asia, these terrestrial planarians prey

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