Oligochaetes are annelid worms that have a segmented body and lack parapodia-like structures. They are often found in freshwater environments and are commonly known as earthworms or tube worms. Synonyms for the word oligochaetes include lumbricids, megascolecid worms, terricolous worms, and potworms. Lumbricids are a family of earthworms and are often used for vermicomposting. Megascolecid worms are a group of earthworms that have a thick cuticle and are found in tropical regions. Terricolous worms are earthworms that are found in soil and are important in soil formation. Potworms are small oligochaete worms that are often found in decaying organic matter.