Taxonomy of the Common Earthworms

Following is the taxonomic classification of the common earthworm

(Lumbricus terrestris).

Kingdom: Animalia

Earthworms are eukaryotic (cells have nuclei), multicellular organisms. They

have the ability to move and depend on dead plant materials and
microorganisms for food.

Phylum: Annelida

Earthworms belong to the phylum annelida which comprises segmented worms.

The segments of the earthworm’s body, known as annuli, are separated by
transverse dividing walls known as septa. They have multiple segments; with
those belonging to a species possess organs in same segments. In some species
of annelids, septa are less defined or even absent.

Class: Clitellata

Earthworms have clitellum, a type of collar that secretes clitella or cocoon

during reproduction. The head of earthworm is less developed than other
annelid species.

Subclass: Oligochaeta

Earthworms have setae or bristles on the body, which helps them to attach to the
surface during movement. They lack lateral appendages or parapodia, which is a
characteristic feature of the subclass polychaeta.

Order: Haplotaxida

The common earthworm is categorized under Haplotaxida, which is one of the

two orders of Oligochaeta.
Family: Lumbricidae

The common earthworm belongs to Lumbricidae which is one of the largest

earthworm family. About 33 species of earthworms are identified under this
family.

Genus: Lumbricus

Species: Terrestris