Which structure forms a glandular ring around the body and becomes part of reproduction in many earthworms?

Which structure forms a glandular ring around the body and becomes part of reproduction in many earthworms?

• A. Clitellum
• B. Prostomium flap
• C. Anterior
• D. Posterior

Answer: (A)

A glandular ring around the body that participates in reproduction in many earthworms is the clitellum. This thick, secretory band sits in the middle portion of sexually mature worms and is specialized for making reproduction possible. During mating, the clitellum secretes a mucus sheath that forms a slimy tube around the worms as they align and exchange sperm. After fertilization, it slides forward and secretes a viscous albuminous layer plus a protective coating that encases the eggs, creating a cocoon in which the eggs and stored sperm develop. This cocoon is then released from the worm’s body, and the young hatch later. The other options are anatomical parts of the worm that are not involved in forming this reproductive structure—the prostomium is a head region, and the anterior and posterior refer to the front and rear ends, not a secretory ring.

A glandular ring around the body that participates in reproduction in many earthworms is the clitellum. This thick, secretory band sits in the middle portion of sexually mature worms and is specialized for making reproduction possible. During mating, the clitellum secretes a mucus sheath that forms a slimy tube around the worms as they align and exchange sperm. After fertilization, it slides forward and secretes a viscous albuminous layer plus a protective coating that encases the eggs, creating a cocoon in which the eggs and stored sperm develop. This cocoon is then released from the worm’s body, and the young hatch later. The other options are anatomical parts of the worm that are not involved in forming this reproductive structure—the prostomium is a head region, and the anterior and posterior refer to the front and rear ends, not a secretory ring.