Question

Locomotion occurs in earthworm with the help of:

• A. Setae
• B. Setae and circular muscles
• C. Parapodia
• D. Setae, circular muscles and longitudinal muscles

Answer 1

The correct option is D Setae, circular muscles and longitudinal muscles

An earthworm moves by using two different sets of muscles - circular muscles and longitudinal muscles. When the circular muscles contract, the earthworm stretches, becoming longer and thinner. The earthworm uses its setae to anchor the front of its body in the soil. Now the longitudinal muscles contract and the earthworm becomes shorter and wider or it bends from one side to the other, pulling the body forward. The earthworm withdraws the front setae and uses its rear setae to anchor itself at the back. The earthworm uses its circular muscles to lengthen and push itself forward again.

So, the correct answer is option D - Setae, circular muscles and longitudinal muscles.