However, in our northern forests, Mor soils predominate. These are soils in which organic matter is practically unmixed with mineral soils below that are more or less matted or compacted. The forest floor is covered in organic matter, also called detritus, duff and the O horizon. Within three or four years after introduction, Earthworms can transform Mor soils to mull soils where the organic and mineral layers are mixed. They can remove the duff layer, disrupting plants whose roots feed in that organic layer. Plants like spikenard, Solomon's Seal, Bellwort, Nodding Trillium, Large flowered Trillium and Goblin Fern begin to dissipate. Tree species shift and Invasive shrubs like European Buckthorn and Honeysuckle benefit and thrive and ecosystem disruption ensues.
What on earth(worm) can I do?
Some simple ways to help stop the spread of earthworms and protect our soils in Ontario's Forest Ecosystems are:
- avoid transporting soils, leaves, mulch, and compost to different areas
- wash the treads of your vehicles and shoes when moving from one area to another
- throw unused bait in the trash, not on land or water.
