flatworm
Refers to flatworms (phylum Platyhelminthes), including planarians and parasitic flukes. In everyday contexts, often written in kana.
Flatworms are known for their high regenerative ability.
flat bark beetle
Refers to beetles of the family Cucujidae. Usually written in kana.
A species of flat bark beetle was found under the bark.
Persian carpet flatworm; Bedford's flatworm
Katakana spelling is common for both senses; Sense 2 is usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling for the flatworm sense; rarely used.
Alternate kanji spelling for the flatworm sense; rarely used.
Compound of 平 (hira, 'flat') + 虫 (mushi, 'bug, worm'). The exact derivation is uncertain; the name simply describes the flat body shape.