A GIS Perspective on the Distribution of Terrestrial Planarians (Broadhead Planarians)

Authors: Cooper McMahon, Peter Ducey, Wendy Miller

SUNY Campus: SUNY Cortland

Presentation Type: Poster

Location: Old Union Hall

Presentation #: 13

Timeslot: Session A 9:00-10:00 AM

Abstract: Terrestrial planarians are an understudied group of flatworms that are considered to be an invasive species in many parts of the world. There are multiple species belonging to the genus Bipalium found in the United States. They are considered invasive and predators of native invertebrates. In this study we aim to map out the distribution of terrestrial planarians in the United States and identify the environmental factors that may impact their distribution. Existing literature, online databases, and reported sightings will provide a source of information on where different species of terrestrial planarians have been found. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology will be used to create maps of their known distribution at various scales and illustrate relevant environmental determinants. These maps will be useful to broaden our understanding of modern terrestrial planarian distribution and serve as a baseline to see how these distributions may change in the future.