Invasive species, or non-native plants or animals, contribute to 60% of all plant and animal extinctions. They cause up to 90% declines in some native animal populations, and cost the global economy over $423 billion in annual losses.
The invasive Asian jumping worm (Amynthas agrestis) is a smooth and glossy greyish brown worm that can range from 1.5 – 8 inches in length. Originating in Korea and Japan, they were introduced into North America in the late 19th century through imported plants and other agricultural and horticultural materials. Recently, they have become prevalent in New England.
Jumping worms earned their name due to their unique behavior. When they are touched, they “jump,” wiggle and thrash around. They can also shed their tails to escape from predators.
One of the reasons the worms are problematic is that they rapidly deteriorate the quality of the soil. They live in the top layer and consume leaf litter, mulch, and nutrients from the soil. This takes nutrients from the soil and destroys the surrounding plants (Knauss). They can make your soil resemble used coffee grounds or cooked ground meat. In addition, jumping worms disrupt ecosystems by displacing native species. In home gardens, jumping worms diminish the growth of annuals, perennials, and turfgrass (“Invasive Jumping Worms”).
Populations can increase quickly, due to a fast reproduction cycle. Jumping worms reproduce asexually. Just one worm can create a new, soil-destroying population. The worms are hardy and can survive winter in their microscopic, egg-filled cocoons. Jumping worm populations expand rapidly because people move infested materials, such as soil, compost, mulch, potted plants, and landscaping gear. Little jumping worm homes can easily be transported on boots, gardening tools, and tires, so make sure to clean gardening tools, buy only certified heat-treated compost/mulch, and clean boots/shoes and tools when moving between sites. Anglers using jumping worms as fishing bait is another way that the species spreads widely.
Jumping worms are much easier to identify in the summer (June through August) when they are mature. Use the ‘mustard test’ to find out whether your garden is infested with these nasty worms.
Mix ⅓ cup of ground hot yellow mustard seed (Chinese or Asian) into 1 gallon of water.
Pour ½ the liquid (slowly) over a 1 square foot of soil you want to test.
Wait a few minutes.
Pour the rest of the mixture.
This will make worms (including earthworms) come to the surface.
Identify, collect, then discard jumping worms.
The mustard solution will not harm native plants or kill the worms.
Dispose of the jumping worms by dropping them in a solution of soapy water, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol to kill them.
Writers Linnea Dun Rappaport and David Karp are Newton North High Students and Green Newton volunteers.
Works Cited:
Dickie, Gloria. “Invasive Species Cost the Global Economy $423 Billion per Year.” World Economic Forum, 11 Sept. 2023.
“Jumping Worms | Amynthas Spp. | Wisconsin DNR.”
Knauss, Nancy. “Look out for Jumping Earthworms!” Penn State Extension, 22 Mar. 2023.
“Invasive Jumping Worms | University of Maryland Extension.”
“Jumping Worm.” Cornell Cooperative Extension, 2024.
“Invasive Jumping Worm Frequently Asked Questions : Landscape : Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment at UMass Amherst.” Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment at UMass Amherst, 13 Feb. 2024.