
Community identification
Earthworm
Lumbricus terrestris
- Order & Family
- Order Opisthopora; Family Lumbricidae
- Size
- Typically 10 to 25 cm (4 to 10 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Moist soil rich in organic matter, often emerging on the surface after heavy rain
Diet & Feeding
Detritivore; consumes soil and decomposing organic material such as fallen leaves
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal burrowers that process large amounts of soil; they typically emerge at night or during rainfall to avoid desiccation
Risks & Benefits
Extremely beneficial to ecosystems; they aerate the soil, improve drainage, and recycle nutrients into the earth