Oligochaeta
Oligochaeta
Oligochaeta (pronounced: /ˌɒlɪɡoʊˈkiːtə/) is a subclass of animals in the phylum Annelida, which is characterized by earthworms and a few related groups. The term "Oligochaeta" is derived from the Greek words "oligos" meaning few and "chaite" meaning hair, referring to the few bristles, or chaetae, possessed by members of this subclass.
Etymology
The term "Oligochaeta" comes from the Greek words "oligos" (meaning few) and "chaite" (meaning hair). This refers to the few bristles, or chaetae, that are a characteristic feature of this group of animals.
Characteristics
Oligochaetes are typically characterized by the presence of a few chaetae per segment. They are usually hermaphroditic, meaning each individual possesses both male and female reproductive organs. The body of an oligochaete is divided into numerous ring-like segments, which is a characteristic feature of the phylum Annelida.
Classification
Oligochaetes belong to the phylum Annelida, which also includes other subclasses such as Polychaeta and Hirudinea. The subclass Oligochaeta is further divided into several orders, including Haplotaxida, Lumbriculida, and Moniligastrida.
Related Terms
- Annelida: The phylum to which Oligochaeta belongs.
- Polychaeta: A subclass of Annelida, characterized by many bristles.
- Hirudinea: Another subclass of Annelida, which includes leeches.
- Haplotaxida: An order within the subclass Oligochaeta.
- Lumbriculida: Another order within the subclass Oligochaeta.
- Moniligastrida: Yet another order within the subclass Oligochaeta.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oligochaeta
- Wikipedia's article - Oligochaeta
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