Three new earthworm species of the genus Polypheretima Michaelsen, 1934 (Oligochaeta: Megascolecidae) from Vietnam

Abstract

The paper provides descriptions of three new species of the earthworm genus Polypheretima Michaelsen, 1934 from Dong Nai Province, South Vietnam. They are named Po. cattienensis sp. nov., Po. militium sp. nov., and Po. cordata sp. nov.. All three species are characterized by spermathecal pores in 5/6/7 and the absence of genital markings. Po. cattienensis sp. nov. is distinguished by paired spermathecal pores and seven spermathecae per porus. Po. militium sp. nov. is diagnosed by paired spermathecal pores and a variable number of spermathecae, 21–40 altogether, with 7–17 in 5/6 and 11–23 in 6/7. Po. cordata sp. nov. is recognized by one pair of spermathecal pores in 5/6 and two in 6/7, by only one spermatheca per porus, and by a heart-shaped spermathecal ampulla.