Some local gardeners are starting to notice an invasive worm species lurking in our soil. Here's what to know.
The Asian jumping worm
also goes by Asian worm, snake worm, crazy worm, or Alabama jumper. The common names give away a key characteristic about it: they squiggle around like an angry snake, especially when handled. They initially arrived through imported plants in the 1910s and can now be found in 20 states.appears slimy and wiggles floppily in hand or undulates to move on the earth -- a stark difference to the frenetic movement of the invasive worm.
Another coveted trait of the European earthworm is its ability to decompose organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the soil. Jumping worms consume organic matter, completely removing all nutrients and degrading the soil. As a result, the top layer of soil loosens and erodes.Asian jumping worm:
They trash around similar to a disturbed snake when touched, but otherwise move quickly like a snake.The body is dry and smooth.Adults are full size in August and September and may be easier to observe.Clitellum is pink, does not fully encircle the body, is raised above the body, and is found closer to the center of the body.If you have found jumping worms, the only option for control is to remove by hand and throw away. Chemical options will kill earthworms and other beneficial organisms.
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