Jumping Worms Do Exist: Meet This Michigan Invasive Species

Welcome to another edition of "Ew, We Have Those in Michigan?" This time, we get to dig into Michigan soil and destroy any white-banded worms you pull up. Known as the "Jumping Worm" for its energetic nature and wriggling when threatened, these little slimy wigglers and Michigan invasive species are the Michael Jordans (or perhaps, more fittingly, former Bad Boy Dennis "The Worm" Rodman) of the worm world, getting up to a full foot off the ground when conditions are right.

While their 'ups' are impressive, it's not the jumping worms' actual jumping that raises alarm flags for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Urban Development (MDARD). The jumping worm's voracious appetite and ability to strip forest floors of litter and nutrients placed it on Michigan's Invasive Species list.

The Very Real Dangers of Michigan's Jumping Worm Invasion

The Jumping Worm, scientifically called Amynthas agrestis, Amynthas tokioensis, and Metaphire hilgendorfi, is a nonstop eating and reproducing machine. Its incredible hunger can decimate natural species' food supply and may lead to some of them disappearing altogether unless we squish the little creepy crawlers first.

Before you run out the door with a shovel in hand and your best worm-squishing boots, let's first figure out how to tell the difference between the Michigan native nightcrawlers (earthworms) and the ecosystem-eating jumping worms.

Know Your Worms: The Difference Between Michigan Earthworms and Jumping Worms

Originally from Asia, the jumping worm was more than likely introduced in Michigan through infected mulch, soil, and potted, balled, or burlapped plants, imported from out of state. While the Asian jumping worm can reach lengths of up to 8 inches, it can easily be confused for an earthworm or, if large enough, a snake.

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The most visually striking difference between the two is the thick ring (clitellum)found in both species. The jumping worm's ring will be gray or milky white in color and completely wrap around its body. Meanwhile, a nightcrawler's ring is brown and doesn't fully encircle its body. The wild thrashing movements made by the jumping worm also set it apart.

How to Report and Properly Dispose of Michigan's Invasive Jumping Worms

If you do find yourself dealing with a handful, garden full, or forest full of jumping worms, be sure to report their presence. Here's how:

• Use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (click here)
• Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone (click here)

Once you've reported it, it's time to get squishing. If you really want to check your land for worms, take a gallon of milk and add a tablespoon of ground mustard. The mustard irritates worms' skin, and they will immediately start a verticle trip out of the soil. If and when a jumping worm emerges, squish it and report it.