Earthworms are soft-bodied, segmented animals that live in soil. They are some of the most important animals on Earth for soil health, recycling nutrients and improving soil structure.
Interesting facts
- Earthworms have no lungs or eyes; they breathe through their skin.
- They have five pairs of blood-pumping arches, often described as hearts.
- Each earthworm is both male and female.
- Cutting a worm in half does not make two worms, although some can regrow lost tail segments.
- Their tunnels help air and water reach plant roots.
- In parts of North America, invasive earthworms are damaging forests that evolved without worms.
Behaviour
Earthworms burrow through the soil, eating it and digesting organic matter. They come to the surface at night and after rain.
Breeding and young
Two worms exchange sperm, then each produces cocoons containing eggs, which hatch into tiny worms.
Threats and conservation
Soil degradation, pesticides and intensive farming reduce earthworm numbers in some areas.
Where to see it
- Gardens and fields everywhere, especially after rain
- Compost heaps
- Gippsland, Victoria, Australia, home of the giant Gippsland earthworm
- World Worm Charming Championships, Cheshire, England
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
