Phylum Annelida (Segmented Worms) 15,000 species Bilaterally symmetrical coelomates Marine, fresh water, & moist environments Complex digestive system Closed circulatory system – 1ST! Are hermaphroditic
Class Oligochaeta Include earthworms Extracts nutrients from soils Extremely beneficial to farming enrich and aerate soils
The Earthworm Giant Earthworm – Amazon Basin
Class Polychaeta Most are marine Have paddle or ridge-like extensions on segments called parapodia Aid in gas exchange and locomotion
Sand worm Genus: Nereis, Multiple species Farmed for bait in Maine, USA, for grouper & marlin
Lugworm
How do Polychaetes reproduce and develop? Nereis virens…eat seaweed & microorganisms
Class Hirudinea (leeches) Fresh water, moist terrestrial environments Feed on small invertebrates, or… Parasitic Medicinal value Treat bruising Surgery recovery Anti-coagulant drugs
The Leech