Red Wiggler
Eisenia fetida
A small compost-dwelling earthworm common in leaf litter, manure, and rich decaying organic matter rather than deep mineral soil. It feeds by swallowing decomposing plant material and the microbes growing through it, turning waste into nutrient-rich castings. When disturbed, it writhes vigorously and can release a strong-smelling yellowish fluid that makes it unappealing to predators. Its banded reddish body and tolerance of crowded compost bins make it one of the best-known vermicomposting worms.
- Type
- Burrow / Venom
- Conservation status
- NE