DIVE.EXPLO360.FRObserve, understand, share
Diver services

You can also access AMIGANSEAU diver services. Sign in to these services with your email address and pairing code.

trouve-MOIIdentify an encounterExplorariumKeep and share your dive memories
ShopAMIGANSEAU ACCESS ↗
Partners and information

Contact us

Verification code

Papillose flatworm

Distribution : Mediterranean

The papillose flatworm is first recognised by its bumpy back. Brown colouring and life among crevices can make it discreet on Mediterranean rocks. Recognition requires details rather than a search for a sea-slug outline.

Habitat of Papillose flatworm Habitat
Rocky habitat, Seagrass meadow
Depth range of Papillose flatworm Depth
0-80 m
Biological group of Papillose flatworm Group
Ecological role of Papillose flatworm Role
Predator

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

The papillose flatworm has an oval flattened body, thicker centrally, with flexible, sometimes folded margins. Papillae, small dorsal projections, cover the brown to reddish-brown surface. A paler pattern can form a cross along the body axis.

Two pseudotentacles, folds of the anterior margin, mark the head. The underside is paler. Posture can strongly alter one individual’s outline.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It occurs on hard surfaces, beneath stones, among algae and within mussel communities. French Mediterranean presence is documented. It is often inconspicuous by day.

Night observation or close attention to passages between organisms can reveal it without disturbing the seabed. Systematically turning stones changes the shelters being sought.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

Attached animals contribute to its food. Observations mention bryozoans and sponges; a publication on Didemnum fulgens also cites occasional consumption by this flatworm.

That relationship is worth retaining by precise name. Turning it into “eats all ascidians” would exceed the observation. Not every encounter on one surface is a meal.

GO FURTHER WITH AMIGANSEAU

Unlock the full profile

Deepen your knowledge with the exclusive chapters and interactive resources included in an AMIGANSEAU licence.

Choose my licence
  • HOW DOES IT REPRODUCE?
  • OUR OBSERVATIONS
  • ARTICLE

Also included in the full profile

  • Advanced navigation between description, ecological context, observations and behaviour
  • Interactive food chain to explore the species’ feeding relationships
An active licence gives access to enriched profiles and AMIGANSEAU exploration tools.
Papillose flatworm

🧠 Understand the species

What is this species’ ecological role?

AMIGANSEAU Explorer Premium

Access enriched species profiles with advanced content (audio, infographics and detailed articles).

Explore all species easily through a single interface.

Enjoy a smooth, fast learning experience suited to every level.

🔒 The full profile is available with a paid subscription only.

Discover licences

POURSUIVRE L’EXPLORATION

Explore further

ArticleTHE SECRETS OF THE SEAGRASS MEADOWRead the article →JourneysJourney through Neptune Grass meadowsDiscover → →ArticleMarine Life, a World of RolesRead the article →