Earthworm
- Pronunciation
- /URTH-wurm/
- Category
- Ecology
- Singular
- Earthworm
- Plural
- Earthworms
Definition
A terrestrial invertebrate belonging to the class Oligochaeta, which is part of the phylum Annelida. Earthworms are segmented and play important roles in aerating and enriching soil.
Etymology
From Old English 'eorthe', meaning 'earth' and 'wyrm', meaning 'worm'.
Example
Earthworms help decompose organic material, turning it into nutrient-rich humus.
Synonyms
- Lumbricid
- Annelid
Related Terms
- Soil aeration
- Decomposition
- Vermiculture
Usage Notes
Earthworms are beneficial to gardens and agriculture due to their role in improving soil structure and fertility.