Idaho Scientists Discover Palouse Earthworms
April 28th, 2010 - 8:54 pm ICT by GDBy Gina Gomez
Washington, Apr 28, (THAINDIAN NEWS) Palouse earthworm which has long been the fantasy of scientists from all over the world has been captured as live specimens by the scientists of Idaho University. Jodi Johnson-Maynard who happens to be a soil scientist is elated with the discovery of the Palouse earthworm which was considered to be an extinct species. Reportedly, the Palouse earthworms which were discovered had translucent body which makes all its internal organs visible. These worms have colored heads with an yellowish band at the back. The researchers were also successful in hitting upon three cocoons out of which two were already hatched.
The research team founded one adult and one child specimen of Palouse earthworm which they believe have the potential of reaching up to a length of 3 feet. The discovery takes on great significance as the Palouse earthworm happened to be an endangered species living on the edge of becoming an extinct one. As a matter of fact this particular breed of earthworm is only found in the Northern Idaho region. Karl Umiker, who happens to be a University of Idaho research scientist was joined by Shan Xu, a Chinese graduate and together they went ahead to discover the existence of the giant Palouse earthworm.
Frank Smith, the famous naturalist from America was the first one to have reported in his article about the giant Palouse earthworm way back in 1897 when he depicted his living specimens to R.W. Doane from the Washington State University. Johnson-Maynard said that this discovery is a rewarding moment for all soil scientists s as they get to witness their fascination come to life after a long period of time.
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Tags: 3 feet, doane, extinct species, frank smith, giant palouse earthworm, gina gomez, internal organs, jodi johnson, living on the edge, maynard, naturalist, northern idaho region, palouse earthworms, research scientist, rewarding moment, soil scientist, soil scientists, translucent body, university of idaho, washington state university
