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Great Lakes Center, SAMC 319
SUNY Buffalo State
1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222

wnyprism@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878.4708

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Jumping Worms

COMMON NAME:

Jumping worms

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Amynthas spp. and Metaphire spp.

ORIGIN:

East Asia

DESCRIPTION:

Jumping worms appear similar to the common European earthworms with a few distinct differences. The narrow band (clitellum) of a jumping worm is smooth to the body, unlike most other species that have a raised clitellum. The body of the worm has a metallic brown hue and can measure up to 8 inches long. The most distinctive trait is the jumping worm’s crazy behavior, thrashing wildly when held.

HABITAT:

Jumping worms can colonize landscape environments, forest understory and in compost piles. They are very likely to be found on the soil surface and in the leaf litter.

THREAT:

This species consumes the organic matter in soil that supplies nutrients to native plant species. The soil disruption caused by this species leaves soil grainy and damages plant root structures. Studies have found that in areas of heavy infestation, native plant, soil invertebrate, salamander, and bird populations decline.

MANAGEMENT:

The best management plan we currently have is prevention. Do not buy or transport jumping worms for use in composting, fishing, or gardening. Transporting soil, mulch and plants from contaminated areas can spread jumping worm cocoons to new areas.

SYMPTOMS:

Infected soils will become grainy and full of worm castings. The soil will take on a grainy appearance similar to dried coffee grounds.

WNY PRISM PRIORITY:

PATHWAYS OF INVASION:

Jumping worms were introduced to the southern United States in the late 19th Century likely on imported plants or other horticultural materials. These worm species can reproduce without mating and transportation of just one individual can result in a new population. Their spread is enhanced through horticultural exchange and in their use as bait.

REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION:

Scattered

MAP (via iMapInvasives):


This map shows confirmed observations (green points) submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. Absence of data does not necessarily mean absence of the species at that site, but that it has not been reported there. For more information, please visit iMapInvasives.