Why Do Earthworms Eat Dirt?

Earthworms eat decaying matter in the soil.

Earthworms are small, tube-shaped organisms with a simple digestive system found in soil. Because of the way earthworms move through and consume soil, it appears they eat dirt.

Misconceptions

While earthworms consume dirt, they do not gain any nutrients from it. Instead, they are consuming the dirt in order to eat the decaying animal and plant matter within the soil.

Fun Fact

While earthworms will eat most decaying organic matter, they won't eat acidic products like pineapple or citrus. Worms can be added to composters to help speed up the breaking down process, but should not be fed these fruits or meat as it can begin to rot and smell.

Function

Earthworm casings, or feces, contain soil and digested plant or animal matter that acts as a great fertilizer for the garden. The earthworms also aerate the soil as they move through it.

References

• Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality: Did You Know...Earthworms
• Worm Farming: What Do Worms Eat?

Resources

• BBC: Common Earthworm