clitellum

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In earthworms and some other annelids, the "clitellum" is a thickened glandular section of the body wall that secretes a viscid sac in which the eggs are deposited. It is present about 2cm behind the anterior end of the body (around 14th, 15th and 16th segments). Once the eggs have been deposited in the sac, the clitellum slides off the earthworm's body.

A clitellum is part of the reproductive system of an annelid (a worm with small rings or segments). The clitellum is a thick, saddle-like, ring found in the epidermis (skin) of the worm. To form a cocoon for its eggs, the clitellum secretes a viscous fluid. This organ is used in sexual reproduction of some annelids. The clitellum becomes apparent in mature annelids and may be hard to visually locate in younger annelids. Its color is usually slightly lighter than that of the body of the annelid. Occasionally, living segments of the worm will be shed with the clitellum creating a new worm through regeneration.

See also

• Earthworm Reproduction

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