Limnodrilus claparedianus Ratzel

Recognition

The dorsal bundles with bifid or simple chaetae but no hairs. Only mature worms can be identified. The penis sheaths are thin and cylindrical 0.8 to 1.1 mm (50 - 80 x the width) in length and have a triangular to pear-shaped head plate. A few of the anterior chaetae have the upper tooth elongate.

Summary

Several variant spellings of the species may be seen. Some specimens may seem intermediate between L. claparedianus and L. cervix. A large tubificid (30 - 60 mm) that is common in clean and enriched rivers and lakes.

Distribution

A world-wide species that is widespread in North America.

13 APR 1996 D.L. Gustafson
AIM home page
dlg@rivers.oscs.montana.edu