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Glite Dictionary
clitellum

clitellum

1 9.9
A thick band near the head of some worms that makes slime for egg cocoons
  • noun
  • /klɪˈtɛləm/
  • Specialized
: clitelo
  • The clitellum is essential for reproduction in earthworms.

Examples

  • Biologists can identify mature worms by the presence of a well-developed clitellum.

  • Many species of worms possess a clitellum.

  • The clitellum of an earthworm is visible as a swollen band near its head.

  • During reproduction, the clitellum secretes mucus to help form a cocoon for the eggs.

  • The clitellum is a thick, band-like structure that plays an important role in the reproduction of earthworms.

  • During reproduction, the clitellum secretes a protective cocoon for the fertilized eggs of the worm.

  • You can identify mature earthworms by the presence of a clitellum, which is prominent on their bodies.

Surface Forms

clitellum singular
clitellums plural
clitella plural

Etymology

Clitellum comes from a Latin word meaning 'little belt', because it looks like a thick band around the worm's body. So, the name fits: the clitellum is like a small belt that helps hold and protect the eggs during reproduction.