taxonID	type	description	language	source
038387DFFFB96038FEB0E182D351FE0C.taxon	description	2008; Moreno et al. 2008), and some Eodriloides possibly allied to Australian / New Zealandian taxa (Blakemore 2008 c), are all placed in the subfamily Acanthodrilinae. Six Benhamiinae species of Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus): affinis, annae, bolaui, modiglianii, saliens and krugeri possibly originating in West or Central Africa and described under numerous synonyms (presented chiefly by Csuzdi (1996, 2000 )), have been passively transported by man to various parts of the world and also occur in South African soils. Microscolex dubius and phosphoreus, both possibly native to South America but introduced by man widely across the world, are also recorded from RSA.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBA6038FE20E779D5BEFA51.taxon	description	Microscolex phosphoreus (Dugès, 1837: 17) Described from a greenhouse in France. Origin expected in southern part of South America (Gates 1972). Synantropic, known from various parts of the world, broadly distributed by man to tropical and subtropical regions. Recorded also in temperate zone from greenhouses and also in the field in Hungary (e. g. Csuzdi 1986).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBA6038FE20E779D5BEFA51.taxon	materials_examined	In RSA recorded by Michaelsen (1899 a, b, 1908, 1913 a), Pickford (1937), Sciacchitano (1960), Ljungström (1972), and Zicsi & Pajor (1992) from a range of localities: Soutpansberg, small kloof near Louis Trichardt [= Makhado] (LP); near Lesotho bor- der (FS); Kranzkop (KZN); Port Elizabeth (EC); ‘ Kafferlandet’ (which is probably Cape Peninsula), Hout Bay and Mossel Bay (WC); Little Namaland and Komaggas [Namaqualand] (NC). Ljungström (1972) mentioned a sample collected in Pietermaritzburg (KZN), housed in ZMUH. In the NMSAD recorded from garden soil in St Lucia (KZN). Pickford (1937) found this species in native forest (Soutpansberg) and in a number of other sites in various provinces, and predicted its broad distribution, suggesting common occurrence in South Africa. However, during the last decades only one specimen was added to the NMSA collection.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBA6039FE4CE08FD4C3F942.taxon	description	Described from Quilimane, Zanzibar. Tropical and subtropical; known from western and central Africa, Middle and South America, India, Burma and Indonesian islands. In	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBA6039FE4CE08FD4C3F942.taxon	materials_examined	RSA occurs rarely; reported by Horn et al. (2007) from a few sites in the Soutpansberg (LP) and by Zicsi (1998) from Durban, Stamford Hill and Pietermaritzburg (Sunnyside, Celtis Rd, collected with annae) (all KZN). Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus) annae (Horst, 1893: 32) Described from Java. Recorded from tropical parts of Africa and South America. From RSA, reported by Zicsi (1998) from one locality in Pietermaritzburg (suburb Sunnyside, at side of Celtis Rd) (KZN); collected with affinis. Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus) bolaui (Michaelsen, 1891: 307) Described from Bergedorf, Germany, being probably introduced from tropical or subtropical areas. Noted from various parts of the world, also from temperate zones when climatic conditions allow (greenhouses and various potted plants). Widely invaded the sewerage systems from Finland through Central Europe to Ireland (Rota & Schmidt 2006; Csuzdi et al. 2008). In RSA known from numerous, distantly located sites: Entabeni State Forest, and Soutpansberg (Horn et al. 2007) in LP; Witbank (MP); Eshowe area (Dlamini 2002). Zicsi (1998) reported it from: Mapelane Nat. Res., Karkloof Nat. Res., Pietermaritzburg and its neighbourhood, and Oribi Gorge Nat. Res. (KZN). Ljungström (1972) record from ‘ Blinkpan coal mine’, which probably refers to the area of the mine in GP. Fourteen records in the NMSAD refer to cultivated land under experimental study: Baynesfield, grassland; Eshowe citrus field, kikuyu grass, sugar cane; Greytown, vermicomposting farm; Merrivale, Arden Farm, Cedara Agriculture College – grassland. Five records are from greens, parks and gardens in Pietermaritzburg. Ten records are from natural habitats: Skyline Nat. Res., Bluff Nat. Res., Ngome Forest, Mvutshini River Valley and Karkloof Nat. Res. (KZN); Entabeni State Forest and Soutpansberg (LP). Occurs abundantly. Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus) krugeri Reinecke & Ackermann, 1977: 7 Described from Kruger National Park, LP, RSA. Type material location unknown. Species’ endemic position not certain. Species introduction or synonymy possible. Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus) modiglianii (Rosa, 1896: 510) Described from Padang, Sumatra. Known from tropical and subtropical areas in West Africa, South America, India, Burma, Pakistan, and some Indonesian Islands. In RSA recorded by Zicsi (1998) from three distant sites, all in KZN: Durban, Stamford Hill; Pietermaritzburg, Scottsville; and Umfolozi Game Reserve. Occurs in small populations in litter and between plant roots. Dichogaster (Diplothecodrilus) saliens (Beddard, 1893: 683) Type locality undesignated, described from potting soil in Kew Gardens, UK. Origin probably in West Africa. Known from Africa, South and North America, India, Burma, Australia, and various oceanic islands. In RSA, Horn et al. (2007) found it in natural habitats in the northern part of the Drakensberg (LP). In KZN, Ljungström (1972) repeated after Michaelsen (1913 b) from two sites in Pietermaritzburg (Scottsville and Chapel St.); Zicsi (1998) referred to variable habitats in the Durban area (Bluff, Stamford Hill), the Pietermaritzburg area (Ashburton, Baynesfield, Merrivale farm, Montrose, Scottsville, Town Bush Valley, Voortrekkers Graveyard), Karkloof Nat. Res., Mapelane Nat. Res., the Richmond area, Umlalazi Nat. Res., and Vernon Crookes Nat. Res.; Dlamini (2002) collected it in grasslands and numerous agricultural fields in the Eshowe area. Five new records in the NMSAD refer to Mkhabati Forest (EC).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBC603EFE25E5A4D7FDFCC4.taxon	description	Information that Eudriloides durbanensis, transported from Durban to Kew Botanic Gardens (apparently together with Ilyogenia africana), is endemic to KZN, as reported by Beddard (1893) and Michaelsen (1913 b), has been queried for many years (Michaelsen 1912, 1914; Blakemore 2002, 2006 a). Collection of this species in Tanzania and KZN allowed Zicsi (1997 a) to redescribe this species and confirm its validity, although endemicity to RSA is not confirmed. Nemertodrilus kellneri, nearly 100 years after being first described, has not been collected in any other part of RSA, or other areas of Africa. Two other species of this genus, N. kruegeri and N. transvaalensis, are known only from their type localities in north-eastern RSA, distant to the kellneri type locality. It is not clear if these species are endemic to this country, or introduced from other parts of Africa.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBC603EFE41E631D5CBFB71.taxon	description	Sent from Durban, KZN, RSA in a box of plants to Kew Gardens, UK, and after description deposited in the BMNH; present housing of type material unknown (Blakemore 2006 a; Reynolds & Cook 1976: 65). Michaelsen (1913 b) repeated after Beddard that the species is endemic in Durban, although in his following paper (Michaelsen 1914) expressed uncertainty on its endemicity, supposing its earlier introduction. The species redescription by Zicsi (1997 a) on the material collected in Margate (KZN) from garden soil confirms the species’ occurrence in RSA. Its endemic status, however, is not confirmed for this country. In Tanzania, where it was also collected in garden soil or cultivated land, it is supposedly also introduced.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBC603FFE71E18ED4E3FD04.taxon	description	Described from Bloemfontein, FS, RSA. Reported from the type locality and Kummernais in Namibia. Known also from the banks of the Orange River (FS). Stephenson (1930: 870) stated this species to be a “ peregrine ”. Michaelsen (1914) supposed a limited distribution, suggesting natural transportation to RSA by rivers. However, it is not know if this species was introduced from other part of Africa or, being indigenous to central western- or eastern Africa, its occurrence in southern Africa is habitual. To date, 100 years after the species was described, and after its second reporting by Michaelsen (1914), it has not been collected in any other part of RSA. Two other species of this genus, recorded below, were found distantly to the kellneri type locality, in the north-eastern part of RSA. It is also not clear if these two species are indigenous or are introduced from neighbouring Mozambique, where congeners occur (Michaelsen 1890 b).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBD603CFE2AE36CD5D2FC69.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality possibly in Amazonian Brazil. Considered a cosmopolitan species. Showing high potential for crop improvement (Fragoso et al. 1999) is commonly used in agriculture practices. In RSA it is recorded from numerous sites in subtropical north-eastern areas of the country, with a selection of coastal zone and hinterland sites along the Indian Ocean (Plisko 2001). Known from protected areas of KNP (Reynolds & Reinecke 1976; Zicsi & Reinecke 1992), and other sites in LP, MP, KZN, EC and WC (Michaelsen 1913 b; Ljungström 1972). In inland areas (GP, NW), it has been noted only under or in plant pots, or in greenhouses. The records in the NMSAD increase the number of sites in natural habitats in protected areas: Bluff Nat. Res.; Eastern Shores (Greater St Lucia Wetland Park); Kosi Bay at the edge of Lake Zilonde; Krantzkloof Nat. Res.; Langepa Natural Heritage Site; Mbumbazi Nat. Res.; Ngoye Forest Reserve; Oribi Gorge Nat. Res.; and Skyline Nat. Res. (KZN), and in the northern Drakensberg at New Agatha and Soutpansberg Ratombo (LP). Found with microchaetids: Geogenia tuberosa (Plisko, 1998) at the border of sugar cane plantation (Plisko 1998); in Dlinza Forest Nat. Res. with Tritogenia douglasi (Plisko, 1997), Proandricus entumeni (Plisko, 1992); in the area of Port Shepstone, in polluted sites with Geogenia parva (Michaelsen, 1913) and G. tuberosa (Plisko, 1998) (Plisko 2003). Often occurs with megascolecid Amynthas sp. However, it must be said that the material accredited to this species in various papers and in material housed in the NMSA, may include more than only one glossoscolecid taxon. Moreno (2004) has recognized more species in various collections earlier accredited to corethrurus, applying more characters for the Pontoscolex species identification. Although up till now only P. corethrurus is reported outside the Neotropics, a new revision of the P. corethrurus collection gathered in the NMSA and recorded in its database may disclose more glossoscolecid species.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBE603DFEBEE6A0D6B7FCEC.taxon	materials_examined	In RSA 18 lumbricid species occur, attributed to eight genera: Allolobophoridella (2); Aporrectodea (4); Dendrobaena (3); Dendrodrilus (2); Eisenia (2); Eiseniella (1); Lumbricus (2); and Octolasion (2). Most of the species are synantropic, known from many parts of the world. To this country they were introduced at various times in many ways (Ljungström 1972). These species, reproducing in variable parthenogenetic or polyploid morphs, were recorded under variable synonyms, which now makes correct qualification difficult. The collection sites were often supplied incorrectly, giving misleading species distributions, as happened with Lumbricus infelix Kinberg, 1867, described apparently from Durban. Michaelsen (1899 b) after revision of the original material identified it as L. terrestris L., however, data referring to the type locality as ‘ Pt. Natal’ (what may be understood as Durban in KZN) was uncertain. Michaelsen (1899 b: 421) expressed his doubt in the words “ … Ich glaube demnach berechtigt zu sein, die Fundorts­Angabe ‘ Pt. Natal’, deren Richtigkeit mehr als zweifelhaft ist, zu annulliren ”, and this declaration allows us to take L. infelix = L. terrestris out of the record of the species occurring in RSA. Ljungström (1972) expressed a similar opinion. Thus the report on the occurrence of L. terrestris in South Africa given by Gates (1972: 119) is not correct. No L. terrestris were collected in South Africa during consecutive earthworm collections undertaken in the past decades by a number of researchers (Michaelsen, Pickford, Ljungström, Reinecke, Reynolds, Pajor, Zicsi, Plisko, members of Ezemvelo Wildlife KZN, members of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg), and others). Experimental introduction of mature individuals of this species into gardens and grasslands near Durban and Pietermaritzburg did not bring the expected results. It seems that L. terrestris does not reproduce under South African ecological and climatic conditions. However, once in a while some information on its occurrence in this country has been given. Some specimens identified incorrectly as terrestris (Mallett et al. 1987) probably belong to the Megascolecidae, giving at the time of their identification a wrong impression by some external resemblance, as specimens have similar dimensions and a violet colouring, both features characteristic of some megascolecids occurring in this country, and also known from the literature for the Lumbricus species.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFBF6032FEF8E63CD594FEEF.taxon	description	Allolobophoridella parva (Eisen, 1874: 46) Described from Mount Lebanon, USA. Broadly distributed where climatic and ecological conditions allow. In RSA reported by Michaelsen (1899 a, 1913 a, 1914), Sciacchitano (1960), Reinecke & Ryke (1969), Ljungström (1972) from: Port Elizabeth (EC); Table Mt, Wynberg Cave, and Heidelberg (WC). New data in NMSAD refer to: nurseries in Pretoria (GP) and Hilton (KZN); experimental field at Cedara Agriculture College, and Impendle Nat. Res. (KZN). Lives under decayed bark, between grass roots, in moist litter, and under pot plants in greenhouses. Once noted together with Aporrectodea longa (Reinecke & Ryke 1969).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB06033FE4CE426D32EFB1C.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality unknown. Native to the Palaearctic; introduced to many parts of the world, broadly and commonly occurring in the natural and cultivated fields, elsewhere where climatic and ecological conditions allow. Synantropic, reproducing in variable parthenogenetic forms. In RSA reported by Michaelsen (1899 a, 1908, 1913 a, b, c), Ljungström (1972), Pickford (1937), Zicsi & Reinecke (1992), and Plisko (2009) from: Zoological Gardens, Pretoria, Krugersdorp and Witportje Falls (GP); Potchefstroom and Stytfontain (NW); Port Elizabeth (EC); Stellenbosch, Kirstenbosch area, “ Kapland ”, Cape Flats, farm Bergvliet (WC); and Komaggas, Namaqualand (NC). Records from NMSAD refer to: Edendale farm in Drakensberg foothills (FS); Potchefstroom (NW); Cradock, Tarkastadt and Tsitsikamma (EC); and Ceres, Newlands Forest and Wellington (WC). Occasionally collected with endemic acanthodrilids: Eodriloides peringueyi (Michaelsen, 1913), E. arundinis (Beddard, 1897), E. purcelli (Michaelsen, 1913), E. kirstenboschensis Pickford, 1937, E. drygalskii castelli (Michaelsen, 1913), Parachilota bergvlietanus (Michaelsen, 1908), Chilota purcelli purcelli (Beddard, 1897), Parachilota wahlbergi (Michaelsen, 1899), and with the lumbricids Allolobophoridella eiseni, Dendrobaena cognettii, Eiseniella tetraedra and some Pheretima sp. Although its occurrence is noted as less common than trapezoides, its wider distribution may be found. It was recently used in various field experiments (Maleri et al. 2007, 2008).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB06033FE4CE426D32EFB1C.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality is Montpellier, France. Described worldwide under numerous synonyms. Its occurrence is usually similar to caliginosa s. str. Both occur habitually together, although in various ratios. In RSA, reported from numerous sites. For years its identification was usually confused with caliginosa, and placed under synonymy. Reported by Michaelsen (1913 a, b) from Knysna rain forest (EC) and Umgeni Falls (KZN); by Ljungström (1972) from Pietersburg (LP), Ermelo (MP), Potchefstroom (NW), Heidelberg and Roodepoort (GP), Groot Brak River Staasie and Uitenhage Kerkstraat (EC) and Cape Town (WC). Jamieson (1967) reported it from the Krom River, a tributary of the Erste River and north of Stellenbosch. Reinecke and Ljungström (1969) collected it in the area of Potchefstroom with Proandricus modestus (Michaelsen, 1899). Visser and Reinecke (1977) record it from Moi River irrigation area near Potchefstroom. Found common in cultivated fields and natural habitats by Dlamini et al. (2001). Collected with the acanthodrilid Parachilota timothyi Plisko, 2008, other lumbricids: Aporrectodea rosea and Dendrodrilus rubidus rubidus, and various megascolecids. The NMSAD records the common occurrence of this subspecies at over 100 sites in all provinces. A specimen from “ Cape ”, identified by Kinberg (1867) as Lumbricus capensis, was placed by Michaelsen (1899 b) in the genus Allolobophora with no species identification; by Blakemore (2004 a) it was indicated as a synonym of trapezoides.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB16030FE3DE197D6C0FC9C.taxon	description	Described from Sassari, Northwest Sardinia. Known from a few European countries also from USA and Chile. In RSA, recorded in NMSAD: two clitellate specimens found in litter of the indigenous part of the Newlands Forest partly covered by pine plantation, at the Cape Peninsula (WC). Collected with Allolobophoridella eiseni and Lumbricus rubellus, near Aporrectodea caliginosa, and indigenous juvenile acanthodrilids.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB26031FE4BE617D323FDA4.taxon	description	Found together with the microchaetids Tritogenia ngelensis Plisko, 1997, T. liversagei Plisko, 1997, Proandricus adriani Plisko, 2000, Geogenia idechorita Plisko, 2003; and juvenile Proandricus sp.; and with the indigenous acanthodrilids Parachilota timothyi Plisko, 2008, P. uysae Plisko, 2008; P. bavenda Pickford, 1937, P. hutchinsoni Pickford, 1937; also with other introduced lumbricids Aporrectodea trapezoides, A. rosea, Octolasion lacteum, D. r. subrubicundus and Dendrobaena octaedra, and nearly always with Amynthas diffringens and Dichogaster sp.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB36031FE1DE7F1D377F942.taxon	description	This species reproduces abundantly under favourable conditions, being the most profitable earthworm species for vermicomposting. Commonly used for fishing, vermiculture and protein production, and as an indicator in polluted habitats. Undergoing worldwide variable experimental study, fetida also aroused interest in this country. Various experiments were and are being conducted by vermiculture producers at universities and agriculture institutions, and the members of the Earthworm Interest Group in South Africa, with an extended literature on the use of this taxon. From the number of published notes, only a few are cited: Venter & Reinecke (1987); Reinecke et al. (1990, 1991); Reinecke et al. (1992); Reinecke & Alberts (1994); Maleri et al. (2008).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB46036FE52E71AD59BFC30.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality unknown. Distributed all over the world. In RSA reported from cultivated land in Cape Flats (EC) and Karkloof Benvie Farm (KZN); from natural biotopes in Ndema / Grotto, Wodwo Farm near Nottingham Road, and Sevenoaks (KZN); and from Newlands Forest in the Cape Peninsula (WC). Occurs usually in small populations. Found with A. eiseni and L. castaneus.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB46037FE24E149D4FEFEEC.taxon	description	In Europe it is known from isolated sites and usually occurs in small populations (Plisko 1973; Csuzdi & Zicsi 2003). Gates (1972) repeated, after Karppinen and Nurminen (1964) that in Finland, this species was introduced to greenhouses and spread within a short time to neighbouring gardens. Recently Kuu and Ivask (2010) recorded rapid spread of large populations of this species in northern and western Estonia.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB56035FE02E65ED354FEEC.taxon	description	Sims and Easton (1972) designated this species name for a species-group, inserting a number of related species. Blakemore (2004 b) synonymized it with corticis. However, the material accredited in this paper to this species differs from corticis by highly developed male sterility.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB56035FE02E65ED354FEEC.taxon	description	Amynthas hawayanus (Rosa, 1891: 396) Described from Hawaii. The original species range is believed to be China (Gates 1972); currently distributed all over the world. In RSA broadly distributed in LP, MP GP, NW, KZN, and EC, occurring in moderate populations in natural biotopes and agricultural fields. Recorded by Ljungström (1972), Reynolds & Reinecke (1976), and Dlamini (2002). In the NMSAD recorded from 71 sites. Sims and Easton (1972) designated the species name for a species-group assembling species with related features. Easton (1982) and others found this species to be a junior synonym of gracilis; however, it is considered valid in this paper. Amynthas minimus (Horst, 1893: 66) Described from Tijbodas, Java. Distributed worldwide in tropical and subtropical zones. In RSA occurs in numerous sites in indigenous forests with exotic plantations (LP). Occurs commonly in natural habitats in protected areas, and in grasslands, cultivated fields, and arable fields undergoing experimental cultivation on a number of farms (KZN). Recorded in large populations by Ljungström (1972), Zicsi (1998) and Dlamini (2002) from numerous sites in KZN. Horn et al. (2007) recorded it from LP; Zicsi and Reinecke (1992) reported it from Sabie and Nelspruit (MP). Once reported from the Stutterheim area (Zicsi 1998). In the NMSAD recorded 27 times from various biotopes, confirming its broad distribution and its abundance. Amynthas morrisi (Beddard, 1892: 166) Described probably from Pengang, (?) Malaysia. Known worldwide from tropical and temperate regions, natural and agriculture fields, and numerous greenhouses. In RSA collected by Zicsi and Reinecke (1992) from the riverbank in Potchefstroom (NW), and the Sabie area (MP). Recorded in the NMSAD from Pretoria city parks and greens (GP). Amynthas rodericensis (Grube, 1879: 554) Described from Rodriguez. Known from many parts of the world, from variable habitats; distributed by man. In RSA collected from over 100 sites in natural and cultivated fields by Ljungström (1972) from numerous sites in LP, KZN and EC, and by Zicsi and Reinecke (1992) from Skukuza (LP), Sabie area, Nelspruit, Graskop (MP) and various sites in KZN. Zicsi (1998) and Dlamini (2002) collected it from a number of localities in KZN. Horn et al. (2007) reported it from Drakensberg North, New Agatha (LP).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB76035FE11E6B6D377FA8B.taxon	description	Described from the Himalayas (Gates 1972). Common in Asia; distributed by man around the world. Extensively used in experimental and applied practices in the breakdown of organic wastes, vermicomposting, protein production and soil toxicology, and as indicator of soil quality. A batch of specimens imported to RSA for experimental study (Hallatt et al. 1990, 1992; Reinecke et al. 1992; Reinecke & Alberts 1994; Reinecke & Pieters 1997, 1998) initiated the growth of small populations in compost heaps near Potchefstroom (NW). Also found at a vermicomposting farm in Camperdown (KZN).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFB7602AFE01E00FD626FEAC.taxon	description	Vejdovsky, 1884, although with no final decision made. In RSA recorded by Michaelsen (1913 b) from the coastal zone at Kosi Bay in Zululand (KZN) under the synonym P. bermudensis f. typicus, which Blakemore (2008 a) accredits to litoralis. Michaelsen (1910 a) gives comparative descriptions of bemudensis and litoralis, including a list of synonyms.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFA8602AFE51E4C4D7F7FC64.taxon	description	Originating probably from South America; spread with substantial human involvement widely over warm and temperate zones. Recorded throughout the southern hemisphere from various regions. Noted also from Burma, India and Australia. In RSA known from numerous natural littoral habitats, man-made water catchments, and variable moist biotopes elsewhere, where collections have been undertaken. Michaelsen (1913 c, b) reported it from Pretoria Zoological Gardens (GP) and Howick, near Umgeni Falls (KZN). Jamieson (1967) collected it from numerous sites along rivers in FS, NW, MP, KZN, EC and WC. Ljungström (1972) found it in variable biotopes, mainly on river banks and in irrigated areas, in NW, FS, EC and KZN. Visser and Reinecke (1977) reported it from the Mooi River area, near Potchefstroom (NW). Zicsi (1998) recorded it from a number of sites in MP, NW, KZN and EC. This species may be aquatic or littoral, seldom terrestrial, usually occurring between roots of aquatic vegetation. Twenty-two records in the NMSAD refer to samples collected in littoral biotopes.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFA8602AFE59E6BED6E6FBB3.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality uncertain. Distribution and species adaptation observed in many parts of the world. In RSA reported only by Zicsi (1998) from a few sites in the Durban and Pietermaritzburg areas (KZN).	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFA8602BFE58E1F7D522FB5E.taxon	materials_examined	Type locality indicated for Durban, KZN, RSA, not confirmed. Specimens of Ilyogenia africana Beddard, 1893 and Eudriloides durbanensis Beddard, 1893 have been described from Kew Gardens (UK) on material apparently received from Durban, KZN, in a box containing various plants. Although both types were initially deposited in the British Museum, the present housing of the type material is unknown, leaving its origin in uncertainty (Blakemore 2006 a; Reynolds & Cook 1976: 65). Michaelsen’s (1913 b) statement that this species is “ endemic for Natal ” cannot be accepted as this species, before being transported to UK, was probably introduced to South Africa, and Michaelsen (1914) was also of this opinion. To date, this species’ distribution is not certain, possibly being the southern part of Africa. Taxonomic evaluation of material known from RSA is not clear. Described in Ilyogenia by Beddard (1893); by Michaelsen (1913 b) acknowledged under Ocneorodrilus (Ilyogenia), accepting Beddard accreditation to Ocnerodrilus (Enicmodrilus) when reporting it from garden soil in Chapel Street, Pietermaritzburg. Zicsi and Pajor (1992) record it under Ocnerodrilus for the material collected from garden soil near the Cathedral Peak hotel in Drakensberg. Zicsi (1998) placed it in Ilyogenia when recording it from Ashburton (near Pietermaritzburg) grassland, at the edge of neighbouring garden. Reynolds and Cook (1976), confusing the generic names Ilyogenia and Ilyodrilus, placed it in the tubificid genus, adding uncertainty to the species’ origin and its identity. According to Blakemore (2006 a) I. africana may be a junior synonym of Ocnerodrilus occidentalis Eisen, 1878.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFA8602BFE58E1F7D522FB5E.taxon	materials_examined	In RSA recorded by Černosvitov (1940) from soil transported from FS to Israel. Zicsi (1998) found this species in the same province, in the Fouriesburg area on the bank of Vaal River near Parys (NW). Ljungström (1972), following information on the species’s occurrence in FS, expressed his disappointment at not finding it during his extended collecting of earthworms in this country. However, during many years of earthworm collection in South Africa by numerous members of Ezemvelo Wildlife KZN and by Plisko, this species was rarely recorded. All material reported by Zicsi from RSA is kept in the HNHM.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
038387DFFFA9602BFE53E1D4D4A6F9CA.taxon	description	Described from Bothaville, FS, RSA. The type depository is unknown; however, it might be housed in ZMUH. Known from Namibia (Grootfontain) and a few sites in RSA, where recorded only from the type locality and few sites in the same province: at Vaal Dam catchments at Kalkspruit, Grootvlei coal mine, and the Sabie River, Lover Sabie Rest Camp in KNP (LP) (Jamieson 1967). One of the smallest megadriles, being 25 to 40 mm in length and 1.5 – 1.6 mm in diameter. Its indigenous status is not confirmed. It is rather expected that this species is indigenous to south-western Africa, and to southern African continent is transported naturally by rivers.	en	Plisko, Jadwiga Danuta (2010): Megadrile earthworm taxa introduced to South African soils (Oligochaeta: Acanthodrilidae, Eudrilidae, Glossoscolecidae, Lumbricidae, Megascolecidae, Ocnerodrilidae). African Invertebrates 51 (2): 289, DOI: 10.5733/afin.051.0204, URL: http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.5733/afin.051.0204
