Turbellarian taxonomic database

Kenkia rhynchida Notes

Hyman LH 1937 (citation)- p 461-462 "Concerning the habitat of this remarkable triclad it seems best to quote
verbatim from Dr. Hubbs' several letters to me on the subject.  "Malheur Cave is a fine cave of the lava tube
type but is unusual in that it runs back into a hill of considerable height, wheras most lava tubes are almost
superficial.  It lies in the dry sage-covered lava hills about fifteen miles slighty west of north from Folly
Farm, Harney County, Oregon.  It is a surprisingly accurate replica of the Hudson Tunnel, about fifty feed
wide across its flat base and with the roof everywhere evenly arched.  For the first half mile it is dry but
for a somewhat similar distance beyond it is filled with clear cold water.  It was in the water near the shore
that the animals being sent [by Hubbs to Hyman] were caught.  Alive they were white with a creamy center and
moved sluggishly with a snail-like movement.  One was found on a rotting gunny sack, the others on the lower
surface of boards, all under the surface of the water.   Among the associated animals were found three true
cave species, an amphipod, an isopod, and a millipede.  It (the triclad) is a soft flabby thing about 1/4 inch
long, rather oval-domed shape.  There is no visible current in the water of Malheur Cave.  It certainly sticks
tightly to the substratum."

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