Classification:
Phylum: Platyhelminthes
Class: Turbellaria
Scientific Name: Maiazoon orsaki
Common Name: Orsak Flatworm
Class: Turbellaria
Scientific Name: Maiazoon orsaki
Common Name: Orsak Flatworm
General Characteristics:
The orsak flatworm is an unsegmented worm belonging to the phylum platyhelminthes. They are free living marine animals. It has a leaf shaped body with highly ruffle edges. Since they are so thin, they are able to rapidly diffuse oxygen into their bodies. Their digestive system is branched, so nutrients are quickly absorbed. In order to ingest food, the flatworm must push their pharynx out through their mouth and engulf prey much like echinoderms. Their prey usually consists of protozoans, worms and copepods as well as bivalves. Flatworms are hermaphrodites.
Habitat:
The orsak flatworm can be found in shallow tropical and subtropical marine environments. They are usually found near the sea floor among sediments.
Importance to Humans:
The bright colors of the orsak flatworm make it an attractive sight for scuba divers.
Sources:
"Marine Flatworms". Wild Fact Sheets. Retrieved from: http://www.wildsingapore.com/wildfacts/worm/polycladida/polycladida.htm