The 3 Main Types of Worms

We get asked this question over and over. 

Believe it or not, all worms are not created equal. There are three main types of worms, each one has different characteristics that make them unique.

Must Read : Composting Helps Your Soil & Your Soul

Each one of the 4400 + named species of worms on earth can be broken down into these three main categories: 

Anecic (Greek for “out of the earth”) – these are burrowing worms that come to the surface at night to drag food down into their permanent burrows deep within the mineral layers of the soil. The common nightcrawler (also known as Canadian Nightcrawler, Dew Worm & Common Earthworm) is in this category. These worms build vertical permanent burrows that extend over six feet below the earth’s surface. Believe it or not, but these worms can actually recognize their own burrows and return to it day after day.

These worms feed on decaying litter and therefore must visit the surface on a regular basis. They are solitary worms and do not like living in high worm populations.

Endogeic (Greek for “within the earth”) – these are also burrowing worms but their burrows are typically more shallow and they feed on the organic matter already in the soil. These worms are the only type of worm that will actually eat soil as well as decaying organic material. These worms rarely come to the earth’s surface and spend most of their time underground in their lateral burrow systems.

Epigeic (Greek for “upon the earth”) – these worms live in the surface litter and feed on decaying organic matter. They do not have permanent burrows. These “decomposers” are the type of worm used in vermicomposting. These are our special little garbage men that work for food. They thrive in large groups and are surface feeders, not burrowers. Red Wigglers & European Nightcrawlers are both categorized in this group of composting worms. Becuase they do not build burrows, they do well in worm bins and appreciate the constant food source and moist environments that we provide for them.

I hope this helps you to gain a little understanding of the workings of earthworms and why purchasing the right kind of worm for your bin is important to your success.

Must Read : Red Wiggler Worms 101: Everything You Need to Know About Eisenia Fetida

Understanding the 3 Main Types of Worms

Worms play a crucial role in soil health and composting. They are categorized into three main types based on their habitat and behavior:

1. Anecic Worms: These are deep-burrowing worms that create permanent vertical burrows. They come to the surface at night to drag food into their burrows. The common nightcrawler (Lumbricus terrestris) is a prime example.
2. Endogeic Worms: These worms live in horizontal burrows within the soil and feed on decomposing organic matter. They are less commonly used in composting but contribute to soil aeration.
3. Epigeic Worms: Surface-dwelling worms that thrive in decaying organic matter. Red Wigglers (Eisenia fetida) are the most popular for composting due to their rapid reproduction and appetite for organic waste.

Recommended Products from Meme’s Worms

To enhance your composting efforts, consider the following products:

• Red Wiggler Worms: Ideal for composting, these worms process organic waste efficiently.
• Nightcrawler Worms: Suitable for soil aeration and can be used as fishing bait.
• Worm Castings: Nutrient-rich fertilizer produced by worms, perfect for enriching garden soil.