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
- Globulidrilus
- Grania
- Hemifridericia
- Henlea
- Lumbricillus
- Marionina Parenchytraeus
- Mesenchytraeus – includes several species that are commonly referred to as ice worms.
- Neoenchytraeus
- Randidrilus
- Stephensoniella
Description and Characteristics
Worms of the Enchytraeidae family are segmented relatives of the earthworm and are known for their anatomical resemblance. Species of pot worms are much smaller than earthworms, however, only reaching an average of 10-20 mm in length at maturity. Their bodies are visible to the naked eye, sometimes being mistaken for larvae of other worm species. Generally, most species of pot worms are unpigmented or white in coloration. Although certain species of glacial pot worms, referred to as ice worms, have bodies of darker brown or black shades.
Despite their small size, enchytraeids contribute significantly to soil porosity through their burrowing behaviors. Along with their larger relatives, pot worms are constantly secreting mucus and producing casts within their burrows. In addition, these small organisms are often observed in extremely high-density populations within the soil. Consequently, pot worms heavily influence the bacterial and mineral content of the regions they inhabit.
Distribution and Habitats
Species of Pot worms are commonly found within moist soils of temperate regions, living alongside earthworms. They are also observed frequently within compost piles and within the soil of potted plants. Enchytraeids usually prefer more acidic environments, though they inhabit a wide range of habitats and can quickly develop into massive populations; numbering as many as 250,000 in a ten-square-foot area.
Diet
Pot worms feed on the same type of litter as earthworms. They are efficient at aerating soil and breaking down just about any organic materials. Their diet is strictly bacteria and fungus, which are digestible, and organic matter, which their systems cannot process. They are also known to prey on nematodes. Gain most of their nutrients by consuming fungal hyphae and bacterial material, together with the frass or excreta from other soil animals.