Aquatic Microannelids (Oligochaeta and Aphanoneura) of Underground Waters of Southeastern New York

Abstract

We investigated the distribution of aquatic oligochaetes and Aeolosoma in the hyporheic zone and other underground habitats in southeastern New York. Twenty-four species of oligochaetes were found, exclusive of the Enchytraeidae, whch could not be identified to species. Two of the species, Rhyacodrilus cf. subterraneus and Chaetogaster cf. krasnopolskiae, are reported for the first time from North America. Most of the oligochaetes found in underground waters are widespread in surface waters as well. Annual cycles of abundance and reproductive activity of five abundant taxa are described; these cycles are similar to those of the oligochaetes from lakes and streams.