New Discovery: Invasive Jumping Worms Spreading Rapidly in Wisconsin

When you're out in your garden, ecologists want you to search for Amynthas, an earthworm referred to as jumping worms.

(Photo : Karolina Grabowska)

Jumping Worms 

They're an invasive species that's rapidly spreading all over Wisconsin and the U.S. They were initially discovered in 2013 in Wisconsin at the UW-Madison Arboretum. Brad Herrick said: "We didn't think they were present in the state. (It was) just sort of a random observation and it just launched this entire research program and outreach and communication around this new invasive species."

Herrick said he and scientists at the DNR are making attempt to reduce the spread while trying to get knowledge of how the worms are impacting local plants and the environment. Herrick said: "They're moving too fast, before the science can kind of catch up (and say) 'Hey, this is what might take place if they move into your backyard."

He said people accidentally spread the worms, through trading plants, moving mulch, or even on boots. This is also likely how the worms got into the U.S., being conveyed in plants from Asia.

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How to Find These Jumping Worms 

Herrick said they don't have any predators in this new home, they're capable of spreading and changing the soil structure. They feed on a lot of the organic matter that's really essential for plants.

They're rapidly removing that from gardens and forests. Herrick said jumping worms make fine soil similar to coffee grounds. If you notice that your garden has loose soil or you see changes in your plants, jumping worms could be responsible. The worms flop all over and move just like a snake, giving them the name jumping worms.

Adults will have a white band all over their bodies close to their head. To locate them, you can pour a mixture of water and mustard powder over the soil. What happens is that the mustard irritates their skin (skin irritant). If there are earthworms, they'll emerge right to the surface and you can take them out, Herrick said.

(Photo : Sippakorn Yamkasi)

How Can You Get Rid of These Worms?

Herrick said it's advised that you get rid of the worms by placing them in a plastic bag in the sun for some hours, then throwing them away. He said the earlier that you detect a potential invasion, then you can pick them out because there might not be too many.

If you have a great infestation in your garden, it's essential to be careful not to spread the worms to other yards.

Herrick said you should clean your gardening tools often and steer clear of trading plants with neighbors. Herrick reveals that in late June and early July the worms mature so it's a good time to go in search of them. 

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