Asian Jumping Worms: A Research Update

Dr. Tim McCay of Colgate University summarizes the biology of jumping worms, recent work on these species, and a look at the direction of current research.
Jumping worms include a group of three invasive earthworm species that can change the soil and organic (leaf litter) layer of gardens, lawns, and forests. In recent years jumping worms have continued their spread within the Northeast and upper Midwest, now into Canada. Most disturbingly, jumping worms have demonstrated an ability to invade intact forests of the Adirondacks and New England. Although researchers have advanced our knowledge of their distribution and negative effects in recent years, methods for control of jumping worms are still in the early stages of development.