Phylum Annelida (Segmented Worms)

Annelids are commonly known as segmented or ringed worms.

Characteristics of Phylum Annelida:

Phylum Annelida has the following characteristics:

1. They are mostly aquatic, though some live in damp soil (terrestrial). A few are parasites.

2. They are of economic importance to man because earthworms create tunnels in the soil by burrowing, which aerates the soil to allow air, water and nutrients to reach deep within the soil. This enriches and improves soil for plants, animals

3. They have segmented bodies made up of separate units called segments . The segmentation is both internal and external and some of the internal organs are repeated along the length of the body.

4. There are coelomates (body cavity present): They have a large fluid-filled body cavity or coelom (body cavity) surrounded