050018 Sequentially bidirectional gastrovascular flows in highly branched digestive tracts of planocerid flatworm Taiwan
Examination of the predation behavior of polyclad flatworms is extremely rare. This study collects Paraplanocera oligoglena, the most common species in Taiwan. Tank-based feeding experiments reveal that Paraplanocera oligoglena can prey on several species of gastropods, such as sea snails and sea hares. Predation behavior encompasses attack, invasion and ingestion periods. This research pioneers the use of stained clam and static image analysis to observe the highly branched digestive system of flatworms. The sequentially bidirectional flow of gastrovascular cavity is first found in polyclad flatworms by the post-stain active tracking technique. Measuring peristalsis movement in inward and outward directions and segmented movement, the contraction frequencies are roughly the same in subsequent order of given branches. Confirmation is provided that the circular membrane-like muscles within the digestive tract are the main driving force for transporting and mixing food. The food dyeing technology used in this experiment also provides the possibility of future research on food chains in the wild.