Paraplanocera sp. 1 is a fast-moving flatworm commonly found under rocks on lagoon and seaward reefs. Instead of gliding along with its foot (underside) flat on the bottom, this species often "walks" by lifting up the edges of its margin and taking what resemble steps. It is a carnivore; we have seen specimens engulf entire small shells, digesting out the animal and spitting the empty shell back out the mouth. The branches of its digestive system can easily be seen through its translucent skin.
The one below was photographed by Jay Lord in the act of feeding. It had just sucked the maroon and white colored animal from the purple cowry Naria poraria.
The dorsal sensory tentacles aer visible a bit back from the right margin in the side view below.
A closeup of the dorsal tentacles, surrounded by light detecting eyespots.
Against the white colonial tunicate, the digestive branches are clearly visible.
Rising up to "walking" position.
Created 21 April 2014
Updated 7 March 2020