Lakefly Volunteer Online Training
Section 2: Lakefly Invertebrate Identification

Group 5: Aquatic Worms

Complete & Continue Next Lesson Learn More

Estimated Time For Lesson: 3 minutes

ID Notes

Aquatic worms have long segmented bodies.

Aquatic worms are usually smaller and thinner than terrestrial worms. The head is indistinct, and they lack a clitellum (raised band). They wiggle around the tray and can tie themselves up in knots.

  • They have long segmented bodies (15+ segments) and no legs

  • Their bodies are rounded and not flat.

  • No obvious head, suckers or eyes

  • May be large (earthworm-like) or small

They can be found in standing water feeding on detritus or on small invertebrates.

They can be confused with terrestrial worms or non-biting midges.

Size: Can be up to 80mm