Inside the Worm

Lesson Overview
Goals
- Students will be able to describe the anatomy of the red wiggler worm.
Outcomes
Teach the Teacher
Tools & Materials
- Microscope
- Red wiggler worms
- Scalpel
- Anatomy of the Red Wiggler worm
Activity
The anatomy of a red wiggler worm is not what you might expect. One thing that is certain, worms are designed to be efficient and effective decomposers and their anatomy reflects that.
The digestive system has similarities to our own but there are certainly some differences that are perfectly suited to the composting process. The gizzard squeezes and crushes organic material and soil as it passes through.
The reproductive system of the worm is unique and much more rudimentary than that of human beings. Though red wigglers are hermaphrodites, they still need a mate to reproduce.
Plus, worms have 5 hearts!Dissect a red wiggler for examination under the microscope.
Can you identify the organs of the reproduction system? The digestive system? What about the 5 hearts?
Related Lessons
Give the Advanced lesson a try now that you’ve completed the Intermediate Lesson! Or revisit the Beginner Lesson as needed.
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