12D-Segmented Worms: The Earthworm

Question 1

Name three segmented worms besides earthworms.

Answer 1

Leeches, sandworms, and fireworms

Question 2

What is the function of the earthworm’s cuticle?

Answer 2

The cuticle is an outer coating of the worm and protects the earthworm from harmful parasites and substances

Question 3

True or false: the earthworm has many small ganglia located along the length of its body.

Answer 3

True. There are small ganglia (simple brains) located in each segment of the worm.

Question 4

Where in the earthworm’s digestive system does mechanical digestion occur?

Answer 4

The gizzard

Question 5

Why are earthworms sometimes called the intestines of the soil?

Answer 5

Because they take plant and animal matter and digest it.

Question 6

True or False: the blood of an earthworm leaves the blood vessels to bathe the body organs.

Answer 6

False. It remains in the vessels.

Earthworms have a CLOSED CIRCULATORY system because the blood never leaves the vessels

Question 7

What type of vessel carries blood towards the heart?

Answer 7

Veins

Question 8

How does an earthworm breathe?

Answer 8

Since the earthworm doesn’t have special respiratory structures, it breathes (exchanges oxygen and carbon dioxide) through its SKIN.

Question 9

True or false: earthworms are hermaphroditic (has both male and female reproductive structures).

Answer 9

True.

They can also regenerate.

Question 10

Earthworms are classified in the phylum ________.

Answer 10

Annelida