Megascolecidae
| Megascolecidae | |
|---|---|
| Megascolecidae found in Sai Kung West Country Park, Hong Kong belonging to genus Amynthas | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Annelida |
| Clade: | Pleistoannelida |
| Clade: | Sedentaria |
| Class: | Clitellata |
| Order: | Opisthopora |
| Suborder: | Crassiclitellata |
| Family: | Megascolecidae Rosa, 1891 |
| Genera | |
|
Over 65, see text | |
Megascolecidae is a family of earthworms native to Madagascar, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and North America. At up to 2 meters in length, their large size distinguishes the Megascolecidae from other earthworm families. They are an essential part of maintaining soil structure, minor carbon sequestration, and maintaining terrestrial ecosystems.