Roundworms: Adenophorea

Physical characteristics: Desmoscolex squamosus worms have a small body that is tapered at both ends. Females are longer than males. The body covering has about 70 rings that have a row of holes. Bristles on the body are arranged in pairs. The head is wider than it is long and has a wide front end. The tail has two main rings, and females also have two partial rings.

Geographic range: Desmoscolex squamosus (abbreviated as D. squamosus) was discovered in southeastern Africa, but scientists do not know where else it lives.

Habitat: D. squamosus worms live mainly in the sea, but some live in freshwater and soil.

Diet: Scientists do not know what D. squamosus worms eat.

Behavior and reproduction: Scientists do not know how D. squamosus worms behave. They have two sexes, and fertilization takes place inside the female's body.

Desmoscolex squamosus and people: D. squamosus worms have no known importance to people.

Conservation status: D. squamosus worms are not considered threatened or endangered. ∎

Desmoscolex squamosus was discovered in southeastern Africa, but scientists do not know where else it lives. (Illustration by Bruce Worden. Reproduced by permission.)