“What is this worm?” is all Gemma writes in her submission regarding the segmented, worm-like creature pictured below. Since all we can go on is the picture and video, we would say this looks like some type of earthworm, maybe a tiger worm. Typically, tiger worms are more red than this brown color, but since the lighting is quite bad in the photo and video, it could very well be red. The movements of the worm in the video also suggest that it does not possess legs, as it has to lift its head to look around before squirming forward, much like an earthworm.

Like all earthworms, tiger worms thrive in moist environments where there is plenty of rotting organic debris to feed on. Such environments include forests, meadows, backyards, and any other place where there is plenty of damp soil and plants growing in it. Earthworms will eat any rotting organic materials like dead leaves and roots, as well as animal faeces, bacteria, fungi, and other minuscule organisms. Upon eating these organic materials, earthworms will digest it and excrete nutrient-rich waste. This waste will act as fertilizer for the live plants that are still growing (or will grow) in the given soil system. Tiger worms are especially efficient at this, and are a popular choice for vermi-composting bins (a container people fill with worms, soil, and any of their organic waste).

Now, it looks like the tiger worm Gemma found is indoors. Of course, we do not know if it was brought indoors, but, assuming it wasn’t, we would say it likely ended up in her home by accident. If it was found in a toilet, then it likely came up through a leak in the underground piping. The leak could be far away, or close to her home. If it was not found in a toilet, then it may just have wandered in through an open door. To prevent future invasions, we recommend installing window screens, replacing or mending any torn ones, and sealing sizable cracks in walls and floors. Likewise, moving piles of organic debris (leaves, twigs, rocks, etc.) away from the walls of one’s home will discourage worms and other critters from sheltering there, and will help prevent them from finding their way into one’s home.

To conclude, we think Gemma found a tiger worm. These guys are just a type of earthworm, which are entirely harmless to people and pets. We recommend moving the worm outside, where it will have a much better chance at surviving and thriving. We hope this helps, and we wish Gemma the very best!

Summary

Article Name

Striped Brown Worm is a Tiger Worm

Description

"What is this worm?" is all Gemma writes in her submission regarding the segmented, worm-like creature pictured below. Since all we can go on is the picture and video, we would say this looks like some type of earthworm, maybe a tiger worm. Typically, tiger worms are more red than this brown color, but since the lighting is quite bad in the photo and video, it could very well be red. The movements of the worm in the video also suggest that it does not possess legs, as it has to lift its head to look around before squirming forward, much like an earthworm.

Author

Worm Researcher Anton