Which animals eat earthworms

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This mollusc specialises in eating earthworms and can squeeze into small gaps in the soil after them and consuming them like a string of spaghetti. Leeches are mostly known for drinking blood, but some are predators and eat smaller animals whole, including earthworms.

Leeches are actually closely related to earthworms so it is a case of worm eat worm! All these animals are a normal part of the environment and are not known to cause any reduction in earthworm populations or soil problems.

The exception is when new predators are introduced which in the UK has occurred with some flatworms, particularly the New Zealand flatworm Arthurdendyus triangulatus. This flatworm species has caused reduction in earthworm numbers in some areas, especially in Scotland, and scientists are looking for help to track its spread. If you find any while doing your Earthworm Watch survey, report them at the New Zealand Flatworm survey.

Earthworms recycle decaying organic material to improve soil fertility, they aerate the soil to create space for air and water through their burrowing actions which can prevent flooding and store carbon in fragments in the soil.

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Prev NEXT. Animal Facts. Moles are but one of the many predators that earthworms must learn to avoid. There are also plenty of parasites they have to endure as well.

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