Enchytraeus crypticus (Oligochaeta) is able to regenerate—Considerations for a standard ecotoxicological species

Abstract

Certain invertebrates (and vertebrates) are able to regenerate lost body parts. In the present study we investigated if Enchytraeus crypticus (Oligocheata), a species used for standard ecotoxicological testing, shows regeneration ability. Artificial amputation was induced. The results showed that regeneration occurs for this species, this being promoted by the presence of a mass of undifferentiated cells (blastema) in the wound site. This only occurred in the anterior fragment resulting in the posterior regeneration (formation of the tail), i.e. the posterior fragment does not regenerate the head and degenerates. The regenerated organisms were tested for fertility, which was confirmed. This is an important knowledge and ecological feature, E. crypticus has an additional survival strategy. Further, given this is an ecotoxicological model species and the possible implications thereof – E. crypticus can fragment and regenerate hence survival results may include this occurrence.