Image

Octochaetus multiporus

Two Octochaetus multiporus earthworms on soil.

O. multiporus is native to New Zealand. It is a large earthworm, growing up to 30 cm in length and 1 cm in diameter. It is pale in colour with a purple streak that runs along the top of its body. O. multiporus lives in the subsoil at depths of 3–5 metres. It makes extensive, permanent burrows. O. multiporus is bioluminescent. When disturbed, it squirts out a bright yellow-orange fluid that glows in the dark. Māori traditionally used O. multiporus as baits and fishing lures.

Scientific name: Octochaetus multiporus Status: native Soil niche: anecic Length: up to 300 mm

Image: Ross Gray

Rights: Ross Gray
Published:04 August 2018Size: 246.63 KB