Earthworms
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The world's segmented worms are all classified as annilids, under the phylum Annelida.
The top picture of an earthworm shows the segmented body. Many of the common earthworm species in the United States fit into the Lumbricidae family.
It's difficult to move through grade school without learning that earthworms are beneficial insects. They live in the soil, aerating it as they move about, and adding nutrients by excreting their waste.
In addition to their utility in lawns and gardens, earthworms are also a very popular fishing bait.
© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels