Current status of the earthworm genus Eutyphoeus (Clitellata: Acanthodrilidae) in Mizoram, North-East India: A review

Christopher Rodingpuia , Hmar Lalthanzara

Science Vision 26 (2), 47-51 | Published on 27 October 2026 | https://doi.org/10.33493/scivis.26.02.01

Abstract

The genus Eutyphoeus Michaelsen (1900), represents an important component of the earthworm fauna of northeast India, with Mizoram contributing a notable number of species records. The state has a diverse landscape characterized by mountainous terrain, forested habitats and high rainfall providing suitable conditions for earthworm diversity. Knowledge of Eutyphoeus in Mizoram has developed through successive taxonomic and ecological studies, resulting in the description and documentation of several species from different parts of the state. Recent studies have also incorporated molecular approaches, particularly mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequencing to support species identification, delimitation and assessment of genetic variation. This review brings together the published information on Eutyphoeus in Mizoram, with emphasis on its taxonomic history, species diversity, distribution and molecular studies. The present study records 12 species of Eutyphoeus earthworms in Mizoram, Northeast India. The available literature indicates that the know diversity of the genus has increased through continued field investigations and the application of molecular tools. However, distributional and molecular information remains uneven among species and localities. Further field surveys, particularly in less explored areas, along with expanded molecular sampling will help improve the understanding of the diversity, distribution and genetic variation of Eutyphoeus in Mizoram. This review provides a concise account of the current knowledge of the genus and identifies areas where further research can contribute to its study in the state .

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