Drawida

Drawida is a genus of earthworms belonging to the family Moniligastridae. These earthworms are primarily found in India, particularly in the southern regions, and other parts of Southeast Asia. Drawida earthworms are characterized by their unique internal anatomy, specifically the presence of a gizzard located anterior to the male pores, a feature that distinguishes them from other earthworm families. They play a significant role in soil ecosystems through their burrowing and feeding activities, contributing to soil aeration, nutrient cycling, and overall soil health. Drawida species vary in size, coloration, and specific habitat preferences, reflecting the diverse range of environmental conditions in which they are found. The study of Drawida species contributes to our understanding of earthworm biodiversity and their ecological functions in tropical and subtropical ecosystems. Taxonomic classification and identification of Drawida species are based on a combination of morphological and molecular data.