Department of General Zoology, University of Pécs, Ifjúság u. 6, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary.
Published: July 2012
AI Article Synopsis
Article Abstract
The anatomical organization of the peripheral and central sensory structures of the earthworm Lumbricus terrestris was investigated applying a fluorescent carbocyanine dye (DiI) as a neuronal tracer. Using whole-mount preparations and confocal laser scanning microscopy, the pattern of primary sensory cells and pathways of their processes were traced and reconstructed in three-dimensions. Our study shows that a ventral nerve cord ganglion receives sensory fibers from at least two adjacent segments suggesting that the peripheral nervous system is not segmental in its arrangement and the receptive-fields of the body wall overlap in earthworms. Furthermore, our result suggests an integrative function of the basiepidermal plexus consists of sensory and motor fibers.
Parasitism is ubiquitous, yet little is known about the evolutionary mechanisms that lead to a parasitic lifestyle. Facultative parasites can switch between free-living and parasitic lifestyles, which may provide an opportunity for researchers to study the genetic mechanisms underlying a transition to parasitism. The oligochaete Dero (Allodero) hylae is a facultative parasite commonly found within the ureter of various anuran species, such as the Cuban tree frog (Osteopilus septentrionalis).
Fomesafen (FSA) is a herbicide commonly used in soybean fields, but its long half-life in the soil can pose pollution risks to the soil ecosystem. Earthworms, which have an indicative function for soil health and play a vital role in maintaining soil ecological functions, have not been fully studied in terms of their susceptibility to FSA. This study examined the effects of different concentrations of FSA on three ecotypes of earthworms (Eisenia fetida (epigeic), Metaphire guillelmi (anecic), and Aporrectodea caliginosa (endogeic)) and found varying trade-off strategy of their growth and reproduction.
- The article provides an overview of earthworm species in Georgia, revealing approximately 90 species from 13 genera found across the country, with a significant concentration in nature reserves.
- It highlights that 46 of these species are endemic to the Caucasus, indicating the region's unique biodiversity and climatic conditions that contribute to this endemism.
- Dendrobaena stands out as the most diverse genus among the Caucasian Lumbricidae, comprising 22 species, while several other genera have only one species each, showing variability in species richness.
Only three species of the Atatina genus had been reported, both living distant one of another in the Amazon. Here we reported two new species for the genus living in remnant forest of the Gurupi Biological Reserve. Atatina arimikuriaka sp.
