Annelids - Segmented Worms

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Phylum Annelida

-Annelida means "little rings"
- segmented worms, true coelom
-Includes: earthworm, marine worms, leeches
-body divided into segments separated by septum (Septum=internal wall)
- some have bristles called setae on each segment
-have closed circulatory system
-have well-developed nervous system with brain & nerve cords
-sexual reproduction, some are hermaphrodites

clitellum

*See Earthworm Labeling

Groups of Annelids

1. Class Oligochaeta - Earthworm

-Streamlined bodies for moving through soil
-Few setae, allows for gripping soil
-Live in soil or fresh water
-As earthworms pass food & soil through intestines, nutrients are absorbed and indigestible matter passes out through anus as castings
-Castings - enrich soil, earthworms aerate soil

earthworm

2. Class Hirudinea - Leeches

-external parasites with suckers on each end
- suck blood & body fluids from host
-most live in moist tropical habitats
-medicinal uses (circulation, anti-clotting)

leech

3. Class Polychaeta - Marine worms

-includes:sandworms, bloodworms, & relatives
-have paired paddlelike appendages with setae

nereis


Resources Related to Worms

Earthworm Dissection

Earthworm Labeling

Observation of a Living Worm