25 Popular Facts That Are Actually False
If a worm is cut in half, it will regenerate.
Regeneration in Earthworms and Planarian Flatworms While earthworms have some regenerative abilities, they are not limited to only growing a tail. In contrast, planarian flatworms are known for their remarkable capacity for total regeneration.
Key Points Earthworm Regeneration: Earthworms can regenerate lost segments of their bodies, but this ability varies among species. They can regrow parts of their tail and, in some cases, other body segments, depending on the extent of the injury. Planarian Flatworms: Planarians are famous for their extraordinary regenerative capabilities. They can regenerate entire bodies from small fragments, including their heads, tails, and internal organs, making them a model organism for studying regeneration. Regeneration Mechanisms: The mechanisms behind regeneration differ significantly between earthworms and planarians. Planarians possess specialized stem cells called neoblasts, which enable them to regenerate complex structures.
