usually the reproduction is between copulating individuals. The two worms join clitella, the large, lighter-colored bands which contain the worms' reproductive organs, and which are only prominent during the reproduction process. The two worms exchange sperm. Both worms then secrete cocoons which contain several eggs each. These cocoons are lemon-shaped and are pale yellow at first, becoming more brownish as the worms inside become mature. These cocoons are clearly visible to the naked eye. At 25°C E. fetida hatches from its cocoon in about 3 weeks. Life expectancy The life expectancy of Eisenia fetida under controlled conditions varies, according to different authors, between one and five years. References External links "Identify Tiger Worm". Lumbricidae Animals described in 1826 Coprophagous animals Composting Organic gardening Taxa named by Marie Jules César Savigny