Invasive Worms in Transylvania County
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Collapse ▲by Judy Merrifield, Extension Master Gardener℠ Volunteer of Transylvania County
Here in Western North Carolina we have three species of invasive worms. The first is the jumping worm, also known as snake worm, Alabama jumper, or Georgia jumper. These worms have been around since the 1970’s and are unfortunately now part of our ecosystem. They are large, have an iridescent sheen, have aggressive movements and move more in a snake fashion. They are identified by a milky white saddle (band) around their body.
The second is the hammerhead with 5 different species that have been here in North Carolina since the 1950’s. They originally arrived from Asia in tropical plants. They are about 1/8” wide and about 1 foot long. If picked up they will break into pieces to regenerate themselves. They are easy to identify as the head resembles a hammer.
The third invader to our earthworm ecosystem is the terrestrial flatworm. They more resemble a slug but are dark brown, blue gray, or black. It is best to handle these with gloves due to their toxicity.
Although these invasive worms have been in our ecosystem for decades it is in the best interest of our forest as well as our gardens to eliminate them as they are discovered. They destroy the good worms by wrapping themselves around them and digesting them from the outside in. They are easy to find due to the fact they most commonly live in the top 6 inches of soil.
To help distinguish desirable from undesirable (invasive) worms, know that the European (desirable) worm moves slowly and the head is stretched in the direction it is going. It then pulls the rest of its body along.
What are some ways to seek and destroy the invading worms? You can pick them up with a bag, add salt to the bag, and throw it away. Worms are also very sensitive to vinegar and carrying a spray bottle while gardening is another viable option to kill them.
To prevent further invasions check the dirt in the pot of plants that you receive either from the store or from friends. If you find worms or small yellow eggs, store them in a bag with salt and dispose of them in the trash.