Body Parts of a Worm

The earthworm is one of the most industrious creatures. Found in the soil of every continent except Antarctica, earthworms seem more like a single piece of pale squirming goo than an animal with distinct parts. In truth, earthworms have many parts--all of which help this creature survive, reproduce and cultivate the soil.
  1. Digestive System

    • The worms have a very similar digestive system to above-ground creatures. They have a mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestine and gizzard. Also, worms have a crop, which functions as a food storage compartment.

    Nervous System

    • With a central ganglion (tangle of nerves) serving as a brain, the worm is very sensitive to chemicals and vibrations in the soil around it, light and moisture.

    Reproductive System

    • Worms are hermaphrodites, meaning they are neither male nor female. They mate by rubbing body segments NINE through 11 against each other and secreting a mucus rich in sperm. Later, the sperm will be introduced with to the eggs when the mucus is shed along the worm's body.

    Circulatory System

    • The earthworm doesn't have a heart. Instead, it has two long vessels that run along each of its side that dilate and contract to pump blood throughout the worms many segments.

    Excretory System

    • This system works in tandem with the digestive system. Whatever the worm eats is digested, then passes into the anus, where it is cast out as castings into the soil.

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