How to tell an earthworm from an invasive jumping worm
Some local gardeners are starting to notice is an invasive worm species lurking in our soil.
The Asian jumping worm (Amynthas spp.) 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.
The well-known European earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris and L. rubellus) 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.
Despite national reverence, they are also non-native, but not harmful for the most part and do not fall into the invasive category.
L. terrestris helps aerate soil as it burrows tunnels, while L. rubellus aerates leaf litter and soil near the surface. The latter’s talent for mixing is why they are more suited for composting.
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.
Here are some characteristics to look for to determine if you have invasive worms.
Asian jumping worm
• They thrash around, similar to a disturbed snake when touched, and otherwise move quickly like a snake.
• The clitellum (band that wraps around the body) is white, flush with the worm, fully encircles the worm and is closer to the head.
• The body is dry and smooth.
• Soil they leave behind looks grainy, like coffee grounds.
• Adults are full size in August and September and may be easier to observe.
European earthworm
• Bodies undulate to move but wiggle when handled.
• Clitellum is pink, does not fully encircle the body, is raised above the body and is found closer to the center of the body.
• The body is slimy and wet.
If you have found jumping worms, the only option for control is to remove them by hand and throw away. Chemical options will kill earthworms and other beneficial organisms.
Do not share plants with others if you have jumping worms, unless all soil is removed and roots are rinsed.
• Prevention is the primary means of management. Take the following steps to stop the spread:
• Do not buy jumping worms for any reason.
• Do not use jumping worms as bait and know how to identify as they can be mislabeled when sold.
• Check potting soil, compost, mulch and potted plants as soon as you get home.
• Monitor and practice prevention tips if you do not have jumping worms.
• Play, clean, go: Clean equipment before moving to a different location. Use compost or mulch that follows the process for further reducing.