THE CLITELLUM
See that small band wrapping around the worm? That band is called the clitellum, and when seen in worms it holds the fertilized eggs. Only mature worms will have this part. Once the eggs within are fertilized, the worm must wiggle the clitellum over it’s head to create the egg sack. It is generally found between the 26th and 33rd segments of the worm.
EGG SACKS
The small green parts of this photo are egg sacks. The sacks are pretty tough, and feel hard to the touch. Each egg sack can some day release 3-4 baby worms. Baby worms are–in their first few days–clear and very small.
SETAE
Worms are invertebrates, which means that they have no backbone. They have tiny hard bristles that run along the lengths of their bodies called setae. By letting the worms push and twist around, these help them move. I don’t have photos because these bristles are so small, they’re hard see with even human eyes.
WORM CASTINGS
Worm castings are worm feces. The castings are nutrient rich, and that is what a bin produces for harvest.
HERMAPHRODITIC
Worms are hermaphrodites. This means they have both male and female parts.
BEDDING
The bedding in a bin gives the worms a place to “hang out” when they aren’t eating. Pictured here is a worm hiding out in a strip of damp newspaper.
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