noun
- A thickened, saddle-like band of tissue around the body of an earthworm or other annelid, used in reproduction and cocoon formation.
Usage: biology; zoology; technical term
Examples
- The clitellum of an earthworm becomes more prominent during the breeding season.
- Scientists can identify mature earthworms by the presence of a well-developed clitellum.
- The clitellum secretes a mucus that helps form the protective cocoon for eggs.
- Under the microscope, the clitellum appears as a distinct swollen region on the worm's body.
- Earthworms use their clitellum to produce the slime that binds their eggs together.