Invasion Of The Earthworms!

Emily from MinuteEarth explains how earthworms, known as nature's gardeners, can negatively impact certain ecosystems. Northern North American forests thrived without worms, as thick leaf layers protected seedlings and prevented competition. European earthworms, introduced in the 1800s, disrupted this balance by consuming leaf layers, altering nutrient distribution, and exposing seedlings. This led to fewer young trees and more invasive plants. Scientists worry that earthworms, along with other factors, could transform these forests into savannas, similar to pre-Ice Age conditions. The long-term effects of this transformation remain uncertain.

What concerns do scientists have regarding the impact of earthworms on forests in the future?

In what ways might the new earthworms be changing the landscape of northern North America?