Earthworms are everywhere – though simple creatures, there are hundreds of species of worm all over the world, all adapted to thrive in a variety of natural environments. The UK has nearly 30 types of worms, found in gardens, grasslands, and wooded areas. Each species of worm is essential for maintaining the health of our soil, and keeping the environment healthy, through soil aeration, and fertilisation.
In this post, we’ll be taking a closer look at 5 of the most common earthworm species in the UK that you probably have in your back garden right now!
Common Earthworm
This is the type of worm we’re most familiar with. With its pinkish colour, and a body made from small segments, they can get as long as 12 inches. They are to be found almost anywhere and are extremely resilient and adaptable. They burrow in the soil constantly, making them essential for maintaining soil structure and aeration. They’re also popular as a food source for many types of bird and insect.
Red Wiggler
The red wiggler is one of the most popular types of worm for composting. They move rapidly, making great bait for fishing, as the movement is attractive to fish. They are much smaller than the common earthworm, growing to around 4 inches. They have a reddish-brown colour, and do best in nutrient dense environments such as manure heaps, and wetter soil environments with plenty of organic matter. They help the environment with their eating habits, munching through all sorts of vegetable peels, leaves, and other kitchen scraps.
European Nightcrawler
Also known as Dendrobaena, this is one of our largest earthworm species. Adapted to the colder climates of northern Europe, this worm can be found across the globe. Looking very similar to the common earthworm, they can be pink, or reddish-brown. While they can do well in any soil, they prefer moist soil in places such as compost piles, crop fields, and wooded areas. They mostly feed on decaying plant matter, making them very helpful in the breakdown of nature’s rubbish.
Here at Yorkshire worms, we sell packs of composting worms, and everything you need to get started with composting at home. You can find all composting and fishing bait worms here in our online store.