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Octochaetus multiporus
O. multiporus is native to New Zealand. It is a large earthworm, growing up to 30 cm in length and 1 cm in diameter. It is pale in colour with a purple streak that runs along the top of its body. O. multiporus lives in the subsoil at depths of 3–5 metres. It makes extensive, permanent burrows. O. multiporus is bioluminescent. When disturbed, it squirts out a bright yellow-orange fluid that glows in the dark. Māori traditionally used O. multiporus as baits and fishing lures.
Scientific name: Octochaetus multiporus
Status: native
Soil niche: anecic
Length: up to 300 mm
Image: Ross Gray
