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Dung worm

Dung worm (Lumbricus rubellus) with measurement scale.

The dung worm is a reddish brown colour with a purple sheen. It is iridescent in bright light and has a red saddle. It is active when disturbed. The dung worm lives in the upper 5 cm of soil but is also found in cow pats or in horse manure. Dung worms are very common in New Zealand.

Scientific name: Lumbricus rubellus Status: introduced Soil niche: epigeic Length: 25–150 mm

Image: Ross Gray

Rights: Ross Gray
Published:04 August 2018Size: 201.24 KB