Discovering Lumbricus Terrestris

Hey, young Nature Detective! Today, you're learning about Lumbricus Terrestris, the earthworm. You're embarking on a hands-on adventure, observing and uncovering the secrets of these soil-dwellers. You're going to discover the mysteries of this remarkable invertebrate! If you need assistance, enlist an observation partner and prepare for a thrilling dig to deepen your understanding of the earthworm's life underground!

What You'll Need:

  • Curiosity 
  • Braille slate and stylus 
  • Tactile drawing paper and markers
  • Nature Journal and pencil
  • Paper and markers or crayons
  • Your gloved hands or a small trowel
  • Camera or phone with a recording app (if available)​
  • Internet access for research 
  • Screen reader (if available)
  • Optional: family member or friend to assist

Instructions:

Step 1: Research Lumbricus Terrestris:
  • Use the internet to learn about Lumbricus Terrestris. Discover as many interesting facts about it as you can.
  • Research its role in the garden ecosystem.
  • If needed, use a screen reader.
  • Jot down what you learn in your Nature Journal or braille slate.

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Step 2: Visual and Tactile Observation:
It's time to uncover your Lumbricus Terrestris! Grab your observation partner and let this earthy quest begin. Feel the mysteries unfold as you discover this invertebrate's unique features using your sense of touch. 

  • Discovery: Dig into your garden soil with your gloved hands or a small trowel to find a Lumbricus Terrestris. 
  • Length: Gently measure its length.
  • Color: Observe the coloration of its skin, noting any variations.
  • Movement: Watch or feel how it moves. Are its movements smooth or jerky?
  • Segments: Count the number of segments on its body.
  • Shape: Note the overall shape of the worm, especially its tapering ends.
  • Reaction to light: Observe how the earthworm reacts to light exposure.
  • Burrowing behavior: Watch its burrowing actions in the soil.
  • Surface texture: Feel the surface of its skin to note any texture variations.
  • Secretions: Check for any secretions or fluids on its skin.
  • Completion: Return the Lumbricus Terrestris to the garden and cover it with dirt.​


Step 3. Create a Record:
Document your discoveries by writing or sketching your observations in your Nature Journal, braille slate, or on (tactile) drawing paper. This way, when you want to revisit the specifics of your investigation, you'll have this document as a handy reference.​​​ 


Step 4. Collaborative Discoveries: 
​If you collaborated with an observation partner, share and discuss your findings. Document this information in your Nature Journal or braille slate, including any sensory observations made throughout the exploration.


Step 5. Questions:
Write the answers to the following questions in your Nature Journal or braille slate.
  1. Why are earthworms important in turning kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost?
  2. What environmental conditions do earthworms prefer, and how might this impact their distribution?
  3. What are the primary sources of food for earthworms, and how do they obtain nutrients from the soil?
  4. How do earthworms use their senses to respond to changes in their environment?
  5. What effects do non-native earthworms have on ecosystems? Can you think of any examples?
  6. How might human activities, such as agriculture or pollution, impact the population and behavior of earthworms?


Step 6: Share Your Discoveries:
Foster an appreciation for your Lumbricus Terrestris's discoveries by sharing them with your family, friends, and others important to you!​ Have fun telling them about the exciting things you've learned!


Conclusion:
This earthworm activity has taught you about these fantastic invertebrates and made you more aware of the ecosystems that live right below our feet. Have fun with your explorations, and keep looking around and being amazed by the cool things you see in nature, young Nature Detective! 

Image credit: Photograph by Alexandr Tsalko