Non-Native Invasive Earthworms in the Midwest and Eastern United States: A Primer
Authors: Keller, A.B.; Handler, S.
Year: 2024
Type: Technology Transfer
Climate Hub region: Northern Forests Climate Hub
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Abstract
Prior to European settlement, earthworms were rare across most of the Midwest and Eastern United States. Currently, earthworms of European and Asian origin are invading this region with demonstrable effects on soil characteristics and ecosystem functions. This primer is an introduction to the distribution and ecological grouping of invasive earthworms in this region and their effects on soil properties, including soil carbon, and ecosystem biodiversity and vulnerability. Considerations for managing lands in light of earthworm disturbance are discussed.
Citation
Keller, A.B. and Handler, S. 2024. Non-native invasive earthworms in the Midwest and Eastern United States: a primer. Technology Transfer. Houghton, MI: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Northern Forests Climate Hub. 6 p.
Acknowledgments
This handout is a product of the USDA Northern Forests Climate Hub and the Northern Institute of Applied Climate Science, a collaborative, multi-institutional partnership led by the USDA Forest Service. Funding was provided by the USDA Forest Service and The Nature Conservancy.