Limnodrilus cervix Brinkhurst

Recognition

The dorsal bundles with bifid or simple chaetae but no hairs. Only mature worms can be identified. The penis sheath is thick walled (2 layered), abruptly narrowed at the head, up to 50 x the width in length and have a head plate with 2 opposing triangles.

Summary

Some specimens may seem intermediate between L. cervix andL. claparedianus A large tubificid (30 - 80 mm) that is most common in enriched to grossly polluted waters.

Distribution

A holarctic species that is widespread in North America and possibly introduced in Great Britain.

13 APR 1996, updated on 03 JUn 1996 D.L. Gustafson
AIM home page
dlg@rivers.oscs.montana.edu