Phylum Annelida
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Transcript Phylum Annelida
Phylum Annelida
Earthworms and Leeches
About 9,000 species!
Segmentation
Segmentation is also called metamerism.
Segments each contain elements of such
body systems as circulatory, nervous, and
excretory tracts.
Setae…
All annelids except leeches also have
chitonous hair-like structures, called
setae, projecting from their cuticle.
Metamerism
Metamerism increases the efficiency of
body movement by allowing the effect of
muscle contraction to be extremely
localized.
More Characteristics
Internal organs are well developed
Digestive system is a complete tube with
mouth and anus
Gases are exchanged through the skin
Some have fairly well developed eyes
Found throughout the world, in marine,
freshwater, and terrestrial environments
Earthworms…
Oligochaetes feed primarily on detritus
and algae.
Earthworms cycle huge quantities of soil
through their guts, a process that speeds
the turnover of nutrients in soil and
increases productivity.
They also help to aerate soil.
Leeches
Class Hirudinea
Most are free-living and eat small
invertebrates, feeding on their blood
Most live in freshwater environments,
although a few can live in terrestrial
environments
LEECHES!
Small sucker in the anterior end and a
larger one in the posterior end
Hirudin
Leeches secrete chemicals that prevent
the formation of blood clots into the
host's blood
One of these chemicals, hirudin, is the
most powerful anticoagulant (substance
that prevents blood clots) known.