Turbellaria Flatworm Diversity in GSMNP and Environmental Factors of Distribution

This study will survey class Turbellaria within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, describe the habitats where they are found, and examine environmental factors (air and water temperature, substrate type, pH of water or soil, and elevation) affecting their distribution. This study will confirm previous records and search for additional species. Finding representatives of the relatively rare land planaria and cave planaria where new species may occur will be emphasized.