LIFE SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -These are some examples of physiological adaptations of earthworms: Many earthworms secrete a mucus (coelomic fluid) that helps them to move more easily through the soil. In some burrowing species, this fluid forms a cement-like substance that lines their burrows to help keep the walls from collapsing.

Detailed explanation-2: -The released cutaneous mucus is a lubricant to facilitate earthworm movement through the soil and protects the earthworm from being encased by soil particles (Lee, 1985). The cutaneous and intestinal mucus consist of water, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and polysaccharides (Pan et al., 2010; Zhang et al., 2016).

Detailed explanation-3: -Earthworms’ main defense is hiding in their burrows in the soil. They will quickly crawl down into the ground if they detect a predator. Some can secrete bad-tasting chemicals.

Detailed explanation-4: -Some worms have even more specialized adaptations to cope with low oxygen, such as gills or hemoglobin in their blood that helps transport oxygen and turns them bright red. Because aquatic earthworms can breathe in low oxygen conditions and eat detritus, they can be found in virtually all aquatic habitats.

Detailed explanation-5: -Elongated, slender and streamlined body which is much helpful in burrowing habitat. Presence of setae and musculature which help it in locomotion and also for anchorage. Secretion of mucous to plaster the internal walls of the burrow. Coelomic fluid oozing through dorsal pores keeps skin moist. More items •05-Jun-2018