An invasive flatworm from Brazil that is threatening agriculture and wildlife across Europe has arrived in Britain. The Obama Nungara flatworm eats earthworms and snails that are essential for healthy soil. It has spread from the Brazilian rainforest via potted plants and has become a nuisance to crops in France and Spain. At least 18 species have arrived in Europe, reducing some earthworm populations by a fifth. Obama Nungara’s arrival on the UK mainland, the third among such species, has raised fears of a repeat of the damage caused to crops by the New Zealand flatworm.

Source: The Times November 03, 2016 08:59 UTC