Enchytraeidae

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Enchytraeidae, commonly referred to as pot worms, is a family of un-pigmented terrestrial oligochaeta. The common name, pot worms, 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

Distribution and Habitats

Diet

Lifecycle

Extraction Methods