First Record of Hammer-headed Worm (Bipalium spp.) from the Jammu Region of Jammu and Kashmir (UT), India

Land planarians, especially the hammerhead flatworms belonging to the subfamily Bipaliinae, are fascinating organisms recognized for their unusual body size, striking coloration, and characteristic head shape. This study reports the first record of a Bipalium species from the Jammu region of Jammu & Kashmir (UT), India. The collected specimen closely resembles Bipalium adventitium; however, detailed morphological, anatomical, histological, and molecular investigations are required for precise identification. As an invasive predator that preys upon beneficial soil fauna such as earthworms, the occurrence of Bipalium may pose a significant risk to local biodiversity. The findings of this study highlight the importance of further ecological research and greater awareness regarding this species.