Enchytraeidae: Difference between revisions
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
No edit summary |
No edit summary |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
Enchytraeidae is a vast family of | Enchytraeidae is a vast family of microdrile oligochaeta, commonly referred to as [[Pot Worms|pot worms]] or white worms. This family is composed of terrestrial and marine species, generally appearing anatomically similar to small earthworms. The common name derives from their proneness to be found within the [[soil]] of container plants. Furthermore, many experienced gardeners are under the belief that soil or [[compost]] is not considered to be normal without the presence of [[Pot Worms|pot worms]]. | ||
== Taxonomy == | == Taxonomy == | ||
Revision as of 11:47, 11 May 2022
Enchytraeidae is a vast family of microdrile oligochaeta, commonly referred to as pot worms or white worms. This family is composed of terrestrial and marine species, generally appearing anatomically similar to small earthworms. The common name derives from their proneness to be found within the soil of container plants. Furthermore, many experienced gardeners are under the belief that soil or compost is not considered to be normal without the presence of pot worms.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classification | Animalia | Annelida | Clitellata | Haplotaxida | Enchytraeidae |
This very common family consists of roughly 600 species across 28 genera.
- Mesenchytraeus, one genus of enchytraeids, contains several species that are commonly referred to as ice worms.
- Another well-known species within the Enchytraeidae family is the grindal worm (Enchytraeus buchholzi), which are commercially bred and sold as aquarium fish food.
Description and Characteristics
Pot worms generally resemble miniature earthworms are typically 10-20 mm in length