Abstract
The aims of this project are (1) to establish the species diversity of the family Enchytraeidae (microscopic relatives of earthworms) in Sweden, by collecting worms from a wide range of habitats throughout the country and working up their taxonomy, and (2) to establish a classification of enchytraeids that is consistent with the best supported hypotheses of phylogeny, using specimens from this survey and applying the methodology of molecular systematics. Special attention will be paid to some species complexes with suspected sibling species, with the goal to resolve the taxonomy of these forms using DNA data. The project will be of great significance for the knowledge, monitoring and conservation of Swedish biodiversity, the production of "The Encyclopedia of the Swedish Flora and Fauna", and the training of young taxonomists.
Sweden