Mesenchytraeus solifugus
Mesenchytraeus solifugus, commonly called an ice worm, is a species of oligochaete worm that inhabits coastal glaciers in northwestern North America. M. solifugus is dark brown and grows to about 15 mm long and 0.5 mm wide. It has a high population density and is common in suitable habitat. It can only survive at temperatures of approximately –7 °C to 5 °C. The ice worm is studied for its ability to survive in low temperatures. It has heavy pigment, absorbing most colors; however, it burrows into the glacier to avoid strong sunlight.
Mesenchytraeus solifugus | |
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Scientific classification | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Annelida |
Class: | Clitellata |
Order: | Tubificida |
Family: | Enchytraeidae |
Genus: | Mesenchytraeus |
Species: | M. solifugus |
Binomial name | |
Mesenchytraeus solifugus (Emery, 1898) | |
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