Classification:
Phylum: Platyhelminthes
Class: Turbellaria
Scientific Name: Polycelis felina
Common Name: Planaria
Class: Turbellaria
Scientific Name: Polycelis felina
Common Name: Planaria
General Characteristics:
Planaria are a free-living flatworm with a three-way branched digestive cavity. They are primarily carnivorous and will eat other invertebrates, detritus, or decaying organic matter. They range in color from gray, white, brown to transparent. They have a simple nervous system along with a pair of eye-spots for detecting changes in light. Some species of planarea are able to regenerate severed parts of the body.
Habitat:
The majority of the planarian species inhabit freshwater ecosystems, but there are some marine and terrestrial species in existence. They can be found beneath rocks, logs or dead leaves in springs, wetlands, ditches and lakes fed by a cold water supply.
Importance to Humans:
Planaria are of interest to scientist due to their unique ability to regenerate severed parts of their bodies.
Sources:
"Planarians". Planarians.org. Retrieved from: http://www.stevesauter.com/planarians/