Keele Research Repository

The histochemistry of the cuticle and epidermal secretory cells of seven lumbricids is recorded and three types of secretory cell delineated. The function of these secretions is discussed and a reassessment of the identity of the so-called albumen cells is made.
At the ultrastructural level eleven lumbricids are studied. Details of the cuticle provide the basis for a possible explanation of the orientation of the collagen fibres within it. The three types of secretory cell are described, one of which shows species variation, the significance of which is discussed.
The epidermis of nine enchytraeid species is examined histo- chemically and ultrastructurally. Species of the genus Lumbricillus are studied in depth; the remaining species, from differing habitats, are compared with it.