Earthworm (likely)
Scientific Name: Lumbricus terrestris (likely species)
Order & Family: Order: Opisthopora; Family: Lumbricidae
Size: Typically 1 to 14 inches (2.5 to 35 cm) depending on species.
Natural Habitat
Moist soil rich in organic matter, gardens, and forests.
Diet & Feeding
Organic matter such as decaying leaves, organic debris, and soil microorganisms.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal; they move by contracting and stretching muscles. They are vital for soil aeration and nutrient cycling through their burrows and castings.
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial to the ecosystem as they improve soil health. They pose no direct risk to humans, though some species are considered invasive in certain forest ecosystems where they change floor compositions.
Identified on: 1/2/2026