Red Earthworm
Lumbricus rubellus
Red earthworms live in moist, organic-rich soils, leaf litter, compost, and dung-rich ground across much of their introduced and native range. They feed on decaying plant material and the microorganisms within soil, drawing it into their burrows. Most activity occurs at night or during wet conditions, when the skin can remain moist for breathing. When disturbed, they can wriggle rapidly underground and release a yellowish coelomic fluid that discourages some predators.
- Type
- Burrow / Venom
- Conservation status
- NE