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Worms in Georgia

Georgia has excellent climate and soil for earthworm habitat, and they thrive in the Peach State. Worms are an important part of the natural ecosystem in Georgia, and humans have also put worms to good use. Fishing, of course, is one way to use worms but using worms in composting and organic gardening projects is becoming quite popular in the state. One problem, though, is that invasive species of earthworms have taken a toe-hold in the state, which upsets the ecosystem and creates ripples through the forests of Georgia.

Climate &Soil Of Georgia
- Georgia has a sub-tropical climate, and is usually quite wet. Anywhere from 40 to 75 inches of rain falls through the state in a given year. The temperatures in Georgia rarely get below freezing. The warm, wet climate make it prime growing habitat for many plants. Earthworms dine on decaying organic matter, such as fallen leaves, and the more plants and trees, the more food for the worms. Thus, Georgia is a prime location for earthworm populations.
Native Earthworms
- Native species are adapted to the ecosystem of their regions. This is true with earthworms. The typical worm in Georgia is a red wiggler, a small worm with a healthy appetite for organic material. Other worms found in Georgia are Georgia (or Alabama) jumpers, which are named because they tend to jump out of your hand. These native worms feed on the organic matter left by the plants of a Georgia forest, and are also important food to the native birds and fish found in the state.
Invasive Earthworms
- However, the ability of man to travel and to find the best worm for fishing has caused the spread of many earthworms not native to the state. Fishermen imported worms from Japan to use as bait, and when they were finished they discarded the worms, which reproduced in the soil. These worms eat through the leaves too quickly, and deposit a dark black layer of droppings that reduce the ability of the soil to hold moisture. One study found that only 4 percent of the worms collected in an area of forest in northern Georgia were native species, so this is a big problem for the Georgian ecosystem.
Uses Of Earthworms
- Earthworms are used for fish bait, of course. But there are other uses beneficial to man for the creatures. Worms are an excellent organic composting agent, as they feed on the dead and decaying organic material in a garden. Their droppings are rich in nutrients for the soil, and those droppings, sold as castings, make one of the best organic fertilizers. Agri-scientists have helped farmers in harnessing the natural abilities of worms so that man is less reliant on chemicals and pesticides.

Animals & Science