Earthworm found in forest soil in Minnesota. Image credit: Domini Brown
Background
Jumping worms, specifically Amynthas and Metaphire earthworms, are a threat to forest health in Minnesota, and are prohibited invasive species regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MN-DNR). It is illegal to transport, purchase, introduce, or sell these species in Minnesota without a permit.
Prior research has documented the availability of many invasive species through trade, including evidence highlighting how internet commerce greatly exacerbates the issue. However, there remains a need for further research on human-mediated spread pathways, such as trade, of invasive earthworms.
In evaluating the relative threat of an invasive species may pose to Minnesota ecosystems, the Minnesota Invasive Terrestrial Plants and Pests Center (MITPPC) assumes that the advertisement of a species for sale indicates a viable pathway into the state. MITPPC also assumes that federal or state regulations reduce the likelihood of spread through those pathways, but that remains to be tested. This project will focus on live earthworm products used for bait, composting, and gardening, with an emphasis on products advertised online.
Research questions
- To what degree does the live earthworm trade directly or indirectly introduce jumping worms to Minnesota?
- What impact does state regulation have on this pathway?
Practical implications
Documenting and analyzing the trade of earthworms into and within Minnesota under current state regulations will provide regulators with stronger empirical guidance for targeting education and enforcement efforts.
Findings
This project began in July 2026 and is in progress for the next year. Please check back at a later time for updates.
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