What are Worms?
Scientific Classification or Taxonomy of Segmented Worms
Domain: Eukarya
Clade: Opisthokonta
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Annelida
William Shakespeare famously wrote, “What’s in a name? That which we call a rose. By any other name would smell as sweet.” does not hold true in the science world because scientists like to be specific as possible to get the most accurate results possible. Taxonomy is further broken down into Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species. A species is made up of organisms that share similar characteristics and can exchange genes for reproduction and continue the progression of evolution.
Worms play a vital role in the natural life cycle. Worms don’t just live in the soil; they eat the soil! Without worms you would have a hard time finding something to eat and the Earth would be a pretty smelly place. Worms are helpful in breaking down dead plant matter found buried underground by eating it. As the soil particles move through their digestive system enzymes and microorganisms mix back in with the earth. Worm poop, known as casts, replenish soil nutrients levels to keep plants growing.