Dangerous

Wellcome Connecting Science | Graphic | Curious Nature

These species can be dangerous to us, or to an ecosystem. The New Zealand flatworm arrived in the 1960s, probably on imported plants. It eats earthworms, which could have an impact on soil health and the mammals that eat earthworms.

The king scallop lives on algae, which can lead to build-up of an acid that is very harmful to humans if consumed. A close relative of cow parsley, giant hogweed was introduced to the UK in the 19th century. Its sap can cause serious burns if in contact with skin. Studying its genome will help answer questions about gigantism and toxin production.