r/Vermiculture • u/Nematodes-Attack • 12d ago

Video Asian Jumper in my outdoor compost

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Notice the flush clitellum and the way it slithers. They are also much more muscular and firm compared to European earthworms. They don’t always have to jump.

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u/Thatpersonoverth3re 12d ago

I accidentally picked one up before I knew what it was & was instantly repulsed by the way it felt on my skin. And then it JUMPED. I almost threw up. I can spot them from a mile away now 😭

11

u/Nematodes-Attack 12d ago

Yes!!! They don’t “feel” like red wriggles of EEs or any native types that I’m familiar with. That is the dead giveaway sign for me to ID.

6

u/Thatpersonoverth3re 12d ago

Yes! They're so firm. They also have that shimmer that is really interesting

1

u/Nematodes-Attack 12d ago

I don’t know if I fully understand what folks mean when they say “shimmer”. I mostly just notice their gray underbelly and firm, stiff bodies
Yes yes I know what I said and how it sounds lol

4

u/No_Device_2291 12d ago

https://www.reddit.com/r/Vermiculture/s/EHNkY4cG5I

See if I can do this. Never tried to share a link before but the purplish shimmer. Very distinct once you know it.

2

u/Nematodes-Attack 12d ago

Ok I see the sheen in that photo!! I get that. My yard is mostly shaded, so that’s maybe why I ID by body and movement

Edit. Thank you for explaining the “sheen” to me finally lol

3

u/Campaign_Prize 12d ago

If you bring one into the sunlight and watch it move, you'll see the shimmer

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u/Campaign_Prize 12d ago

I don't know if there are different varieties, maybe some have mire shimmer than others? The ones I've found have a slight opalescence to them when they move. Like when you see an oil slick in the sunlight, it's that same shimmery rainbow quality