Referring to animals, particularly annelid worms like earthworms and leeches, that possess a clitellum. The clitellum is a glandular swelling in the body wall, usually located in the anterior region, that secretes a cocoon-like structure to aid in reproduction. This specialized region produces mucus and albumen, which are crucial for the development and protection of fertilized eggs. Its presence is a key characteristic used to classify these animals. The clitellum's distinct appearance allows for easy identification of reproductive maturity in many clitellate species. The size and shape of the clitellum can vary depending on the species and reproductive stage.
Clitellate meaning with examples
- The biologist carefully examined the earthworm, noting the prominent clitellum, indicating its reproductive readiness. Its swollen appearance distinguished it clearly from the younger, non-clitellate worms. Observing the clitellum provides crucial information about the worm's life cycle, including when it’s best suited for breeding and reproduction. The clitellate earthworm was carefully put back in its damp soil after being carefully examined.
- During their field study, the students collected several clitellate leeches from the pond. The leeches displayed visible clitella, indicating that the time was right for them to breed and reproduce in their natural environment. They documented the location, size, and color of each clitellum as part of their research data. This information helped the scientists determine the population's maturity and the peak breeding season for these leeches.
- The researcher focused on the clitellate worms in the sample to determine their species and reproductive status. The presence or absence of a developed clitellum is a crucial factor in taxonomic identification, allowing for quick and relatively easy classification. The research also investigated how environmental factors affect the clitellum's development. This aided in understanding the reproductive cycles of these aquatic organisms.
- In the laboratory experiment, the worms were sorted based on the presence or absence of a clitellum. Only the clitellate worms were selected for cross-breeding to study reproductive behaviors and cocoon production. The clitellum's presence was vital for the experiment's success, as it ensured successful breeding cycles. The experiment relied on the clitellum for breeding, cocoon development, and subsequent offspring analysis.