- Blackworms primarily reproduce asexually through a process called fragmentation or budding.
- A portion of the body, usually near the head, begins to grow and eventually separates from the parent worm, developing into a new individual.
- This type of reproduction allows blackworms to quickly and effectively increase their population, leading to their colonization success in various environments.
Sexual reproduction (mating):
- While more commonly observed in other tubificid worm species, California blackworms also have the capability for sexual reproduction through mating.
- During mating, two worms align their bodies and exchange sperm.
- Fertilization takes place internally, and the fertilized eggs are typically deposited in mucous cocoons that the worms attach to substrates like plants, rocks, or debris.
- These cocoons are protective environments for the developing embryos until they hatch into juvenile blackworms.
In summary, California blackworms use both asexual (budding) and sexual (mating) reproduction to generate offspring, ensuring their adaptability and persistence in varying ecological conditions.
