Tenagodrilus musculus, a new genus and species of Lumbriculidae (Clitellata) from a temporary pond in Alabama, USA

Abstract

A new hyporheic lumbriculid clitellate, Tenagodrilus musculus g.n., sp.n. from Huntsville, Alabama, USA is described. The plan of the reproductive system is plesiomorphic, as in Stylodrilus and other genera, but there is a pair of pendant penes like those of Lumbriculus. The massive penial and spermathecal pores open into deep sacs, and the penial musculature is both complex and unique. The posterior segments have commissural vessels with elaborate blind-ending lateral processes. In developing worms the ciliated part of the vas deferens appear to grow toward the atria, but another, unciliated part of the vas deferens grows out from the atria. In partially mature forms, a rudimentary second pair of ovaries without female funnels was observed, which is not present in mature worms. Mature worms are found throughout the period when the temporary pond in which the taxon was found is full, suggesting that it is a hyporheic form.