The Common Earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris) is a widely distributed worm species around the world. The species forms temporary deep burrows and only surfaces to feed; this is different than most earthworms that burrow through the soil for their food. While the Common Earthworm is not the most abundant earthworm, it is a very familiar species in garden and agricultural soils of the temperate zone. In appearance it is reddish-gray, and the worm’s first segment contains its mouth. The diet consists of soil, where the nutrients are extracted from decomposing organic matter like leaves and roots.
The Common Earthworm has an overall length between 7.87”-9.84” (20-25 cm), diameter of .28”-.39” (7-10 mm), and weight of .01-.09 lb (5-40 g). The typical lifespan of the Common Earthworm is between 4-8 years.
The Common Earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris) is a widely distributed worm species around the world. The species forms temporary deep burrows and only surfaces to feed; this is different than most earthworms that burrow through the soil for their food. While the Common Earthworm is not the most abundant earthworm, it is a very familiar species in garden and agricultural soils of the temperate zone. In appearance it is reddish-gray, and the worm’s first segment contains its mouth. The diet consists of soil, where the nutrients are extracted from decomposing organic matter like leaves and roots.
The Common Earthworm has an overall length between 7.87”-9.84” (20-25 cm), diameter of .28”-.39” (7-10 mm), and weight of .01-.09 lb (5-40 g). The typical lifespan of the Common Earthworm is between 4-8 years.
