Earthworm Dissection Guide

These flashcards cover the external and internal anatomy of the earthworm, including terms related to dissection, anatomical structures, and specific functions.

Cranial region

The 'head' end of the earthworm.

Caudal region

The 'tail' end of the earthworm.

Clitellum

A thickened, glandular section of the earthworm's body that plays a role in reproduction.

Setae

Tiny bristle-like structures on the body of the earthworm that aid in movement.

Pharynx

Muscular structure used for swallowing food.

Seminal receptacle

Structure in earthworms for storing sperm received from another worm.

Dorsal blood vessel

The primary blood vessel located on the top side of the earthworm.

Ventral nerve cord

Nerve cord located on the underside of the earthworm, part of its nervous system.

Typhlosole

Fold in the intestine that increases surface area for absorption.

Aortic arches

Structures that function like a heart, pumping blood throughout the earthworm's body.

Protonephridia

Excretory structures in earthworms that help in filtering body fluids.

Gizzard

Muscular structure that grinds food in the digestive system of the earthworm.

Crop

Part of the digestive system where food is stored before it's digested.

Esophagus

Tube that conveys food from the mouth to the crop.

Ovary

Reproductive organ producing eggs in the female earthworm.

Oviduct

Tube through which eggs pass from the ovary.

Intestine

Organ where digestion and nutrient absorption take place.

Ventral blood vessel

Blood vessel located on the underside of the earthworm.