Earthworm Facts The skinny on our wiggly friends

I. Worm Anatomy A.Earthworms are invertebrates 1.They don’t have a backbone 2.They have no bones at all B.Earthworms have no eyes C.They sense where they are by smell and temperature

D. They’re covered with protective mucus E. They have bristles 1. called cilia 2. help them move through the soil

II. Reproduction A.Earthworms are hermaphroditic 1.Individuals are both male and female 2.They can mate with any other individual 3.But they can’t fertilize themselves B.They produce a packet of 4-20 eggs

III. Composting with Earthworms A.Earthworms are natural decomposers B.They break down organic waste C.This enriches soil by recycling nutrients

D. You can buy a composter or make your own E. What to feed your worms 1. fruit and vegetable scraps 2. coffee grounds and tea bags 3. egg shells 4. small amounts of: a. bread b. rice c. leaves and grass clippings

F. What not to feed your worms 1. meat 2. cheese or dairy 3. oily or greasy food