Earthworms belong to which phylum?

Earthworms belong to the phylum Annelida, which is characterized by segmented bodies. This segmentation is a distinct feature of annelids, allowing for greater flexibility and more complex movement compared to organisms in other phyla. Annelids also possess a coelom, which is a body cavity that is lined with mesoderm, and they exhibit bilateral symmetry.

Additionally, earthworms have a well-developed digestive system, a circulatory system that includes blood vessels and aortic arches, and the ability to reproduce sexually or asexually. The phylum includes various other segmented worms, demonstrating a wide range of adaptations for different environments, including marine, freshwater, and terrestrial habitats. This complexity and adaptation capability highlight the unique biological status of Annelida among invertebrates.