Australian Biological Resources Study
L.Newman & L.Cannon
CD ROM
Australian Biological Resources Study/CSIRO Publishing, 2005
ISBN 0 643 06964 X
Fabulous Flatworms aims to increase the awareness and understanding of an important group of intriguing marine animals, the polyclad flatworms. Polyclads, which are almost exclusively marine, are simple, free-living flatworms belonging to Phylum Platyhelminthes, otherwise known for the notorious, parasitic tapeworms and flukes. Polyclads include some of the most flamboyant and colourful animals of the sea. As thin as a leaf and usually oval in shape, these animals may first catch your attention by their spectacular and obvious colour patterns. But do not confuse them with the equally vibrant and better known nudibranch molluscs!
At the core of Fabulous Flatworms is an innovative identification tool to some 400 species based on the highly distinctive patterns and colours of these extraordinary animals. Many are from the Indo-Pacific region, but other species from elsewhere in the world are also included. This resource also brings together information on the biology of flatworms, including eating habits, mimicry and penis-fencing, as well as practical information regarding polyclad flatworms as pests and methods of collection and preservation. Superbly illustrated with contributions from over 50 photographers, Fabulous Flatworms aims to promote further discussion, study and discovery. It has been created for all those fascinated by marine life.
Available from CSIRO Publishing.