The Life History of Limnodrilus Udekemianus Clap. (Oligochaeta: Tubificidae)

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The taxonomy of L. udekemianus is discussed briefly. The development of the reproductive organs and the life history under laboratory conditions are described. The life history and seasonal changes in numbers of L. udekemianus have been followed in 3 localities: a productive river and two unproductive streams. The cycle is biannual. Breeding takes place in late winter or early spring and is followed by death of the worms. The young take at least a year to attain maturity, and the population at any one time contains a mixture of 2 year-classes. Seasonal changes in population size may be related to breeding activity, climatic conditions and intensity of predatlon.