The worms are unpigmented and have around 200 segments.[1] Adults measure 5–10cm (2.0–3.9in) in length.[3]
Reproduction
It reproduces both parthenogenetically and (rarely) sexually,[4] and under experimental conditions can complete its life cycle in about one year.[3]
Ecology and habitat
The worm thrives in difficult environments with poor nutrition.[5] It is key to emergence of agriculture in the Amazon Basin, where soil is extremely poor. It may have facilitated the formation of terra preta.[5]
On the other hand, the worm's adaptability has allowed it to spread to many disturbed tropical areas, especially urban sites and industrially-farmed areas.[5] It is now considered an invasive species in many parts of the world.[2][6] An endogeic worm creating globular casts, it is considered responsible for soil compaction in sweet potato fields, in maize fields, and in Amazonian pastures newly converted from forest. This ecosystem engineering also makes it harder for native species to return to their original habitat.[7]
↑ "南美種壓境 本土蚯蚓處境艱難"[South American species invades; native earthworms struggle to survive]. 環境資訊中心 (Environmental Information Center, Taiwan) (in Chinese (Taiwan)). August 6, 2013. Retrieved 23 May 2022.
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