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Microchaetus rappi, the African Giant Earthworm, is a large earthworm in the family Microchaetidae, the largest of the segmented worms (commonly called earthworms). It averages about 1.4 meters (4.5 feet) in length, but can reach a length of as much as 6.7 meters (22 feet) and can weigh over 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds).
These giant earthworms average 1 metre (3.3 ft) long and 2 centimetres (0.79 in) in diameter and can reach 3 metres (9.8 ft) in length; however, their body is able to expand and contract making them appear much larger. On average they weigh about 200 grams (0.44 lb).
The Oregon giant earthworm was first described by Frank Smith in 1937 from a specimen found near Salem, Oregon in 1903. The species was named in honor of its collector, F. M. McElfresh. [ 2 ] Like its cousin, the giant Palouse earthworm ( Driloleirus americanus ) of Washington, this species can grow to lengths in excess of 3 feet (0.91 m) and ...
The Mekong giant earthworm may grow to a length of up to 2.9 m (10 ft). [2] Compared to their great length, these worms are relatively slender. [3] The type specimen was one metre long and 8 mm (0.3 in) wide at the broadest point (segment 5). It had 370 segments and was a greyish colour, rather paler on the ventral surface.
Diplocardia meansi, the Means's giant earthworm, or Rich Mountain giant earthworm, is a species of earthworm endemic to the United States. It is the second longest earthworm in North America. It was discovered by D. Bruce Means on June 11, 1973, in Polk County, Arkansas. [1] and later described by Gates in 1977.
The giant Palouse earthworm or Washington giant earthworm (Driloleirus americanus, meaning lily-like worm [2]) is a species of earthworm belonging to the genus Driloleirus inhabiting the Palouse region of Eastern Washington and North Idaho, in the United States. The worm was discovered in 1897 by Frank Smith near Pullman, Washington. It can ...
Up to 60 cm in length, this earthworm is one of the largest European species. [1] [2] It weighs between 25 and 35 g and lives in subterranean tubes which are up to 2.5 m deep. It feeds on organic matter it ingests from the surface and aerates the soil as it moves through it, contributing to the formation of humus. It is prey for foxes and owls.
Earthworms are environmental indicators of soil health. Earthworms feed on the decaying matter in the soil and analyzing the contents of their digestive tracts gives insight into the overall condition of the soil. The earthworm gut accumulates chemicals, including heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury, zinc, and copper. The population size of ...