
Malmö – The 2025 growing season in Sweden is marked by an urgent search for an invasive flatworm in nurseries and garden centers. This South American flatworm poses a significant threat and must be contained.
This flatworm is flat and unassuming, often hiding just beneath the soil surface, making it difficult for people to spot. It inflicts considerable damage by preying on earthworms, which jeopardizes soil fertility.
Currently, the flatworm appears to have no natural predators in Sweden, exacerbating the threat.
The first identification of the flatworm, known scientifically as Obama nungara, occurred in a planting in Malmö last November. Following this discovery, the government acted swiftly, granting authorities the power to implement emergency measures in December. As of January 7, it has been illegal to further spread the worm within Sweden.
However, with peak season underway for nurseries, imported plants are pouring in, and dedicated search dog teams are consistently finding the flatworm during their inspections.
At present, the spreading prohibition is specific to Sweden, posing challenges for importers, but an EU-wide decision is anticipated after the summer.
(April 21)













Leave a Reply