Overview
- Austria’s Natural History Museum in Vienna and the University of Innsbruck verified four Obama nungara specimens from Tulln via genetic analyses after finds between November 2022 and August 2024.
- Scientists describe the species as a nocturnal predator of earthworms, slugs, insect larvae and woodlice, warning of potential soil ecosystem impacts while noting that detailed field impact studies are still lacking.
- The flatworm’s European spread is linked to potted and ornamental plants and freight, with reports across France, Spain, Portugal, Italy, the UK and Germany, including very high local densities in parts of France.
- Distribution models place Austria near the eastern limit of suitable habitat, leaving establishment uncertain, though warming temperatures could expand favorable conditions.
- Authorities and conservation groups advise inspecting purchased plants, checking damp, dark garden spots, killing worms and eggs in soapy water without cutting them, and reporting sightings with photos to platforms such as iNaturalist or Naturgucker.