Enchytraeidae
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, of which generally appear similar to miniature 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 a wide range of genera, including:
- Achaeta
- Archienchytraeus
- Cernosvitoviella
- Christensenidrilus
- Cognettia
- Enchytraeina
- Enchytraeus - includes a more well-known species, Enchytraeus buchholzi, commonly known as the grindal worm. They are commercially bred and sold as aquarium fish food.
- Epitelphusa
- Fridericia (animal)|Fridericia
- Globulidrilus
- Grania
- Hemifridericia
- Henlea
- Lumbricillus
- Marionina Parenchytraeus
- Mesenchytraeus – includes several species that are commonly referred to as ice worms.
- Neoenchytraeus
- Randidrilus
- Stephensoniella (worm)|Stephensoniella
Description and Characteristics
Pot worms are segmented relatives of the earthworm and are known for their anatomical resemblance. Pot worms are much smaller, however, averagely only growing 10-20 mm in length at maturity. Generally, most species of pot worms are unpigmented or white in coloration.