How could production of a cocoon contribute to the evolutionary sucess of earthworms in their environment?
2007-08-16 06:03:42 · 2 answers · asked by wake up 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Biology
Coccon is a protective shield to let the embryo develop within it, while the earthworm may explore deeper for food.
2007-08-20 04:06:31 · answer #1 · answered by Ishan26 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It would allow an individual earthworm to survive during drought periods.
It's not really necessary, though. If you dig around during a dry spell where you think earthworms might be you will find:
a) A few live earthworms, coiled up, coated with slime, surrounded by clay soil capsules -- almost like a cocoon.
b) Earthworm egg cases, which are more resistant to dry spells than an intact earthworm.
Los Angeles compost heap here.
2007-08-16 07:49:59 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋