How Did They Get to Ontario?

Introduction:

Jumping worms are not native to North America, so how did they end up in Ontario? Their spread is a result of human activities, especially the movement of soil, plants, and mulch.

How They Arrived:

The first sightings of jumping worms in Ontario date back to the early 2000s. They are believed to have been introduced accidentally through the transportation of contaminated soil and horticultural materials. Once introduced, jmuping worms can quickly establish themselves in a new environment.

Spread and Movement:

The worms also spread through the use of contaminated gardening tools or the sale of infected plants.

References/Links:

1. Ontario Master Gardeners: Jumping Worms Introduction https://haltonmastergardeners.com/2022/04/15/invasive-jumping-worms-information-for-home-gardeners/

2. [CBC News: Earthworm Problem in Ontario https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/jumping-worms-toronto-spread-1.6863841

3.https://conservationhamilton.ca/blog/all-about-invasive-jumping-worms/

"Non-native earthworms: Entering the second wave of invasion" webinar with Dr. Michael McTavish https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqXFVWzXSsI