How did worms move?

Worms move by utilizing a combination of specialized muscles and a hydraulic system within their segmented bodies.

Here's a breakdown of how this process works:

• Segmentation: A worm's body is divided into numerous segments.

• Hydraulic System: Each segment is filled with fluid, creating a hydraulic system. This fluid acts under pressure.

• Muscles: Each segment has its own set of muscles. These muscles are primarily of two types:

  • Circular Muscles: When these muscles contract, the segment becomes longer and thinner.
  • Longitudinal Muscles: When these muscles contract, the segment becomes shorter and thicker.

• Movement Process:

  1. The worm anchors part of its body using small bristles called setae.
  2. Circular muscles in front of the anchored section contract, elongating and pushing that part of the body forward.
  3. The front section then anchors itself using setae.
  4. Longitudinal muscles contract, pulling the rear section forward.
  5. This process is repeated, allowing the worm to move through the soil.

In essence, worms utilize a coordinated sequence of muscle contractions and fluid pressure to move through their environment. This system allows for efficient movement through soil and other substrates.