Detecting small snake-like earthworm in Scotland

The big snake-like worm, the size of a mouse, was discovered on Rum Island in Scotland.

According to the Telegraph, this is the largest worm ever discovered in the UK, has a length of three and weighs four times as much as normal worms. The worm, discovered by Central Lancashire University scientists, is 40 centimeters long, thriving thanks to its nutrient-rich soil environment and few predators on Rum Island, off the coast of Scotland.

"These worms weigh about 12.5 grams, many times more than the normal size of worms of only 4-5 grams," said Dr. Kevin Butt, chairman of the earthworm research project. This new finding is published in the January issue of The Glasgow Naturalist magazine.

The worm has a scientific name, Lumbricus terestris , found in Papadil - a sparsely populated area in Rum with only 30 people living.

If free to grow, Rum Island earthworm can weigh up to 15-20 grams.(Photo: Telegraph).

"When these worms crawl out of the cave, they're like little snakes, " Mr. Butt said, glad to discover the worm. They play an important role in the ecosystem, reducing the risk of flooding.

"Without them plowing the ground, we will lose more. Their importance as bees pollinate crops, they help ventilate soil and water, prevent surface erosion."

Dr. Butt said that the worm on Rum Island is larger than normal due to its isolated location, in good quality land , there are not many carnivores like badgers, porcupines, foxes - those that will swallow worms before they keep up big.

Unlike most animals that stop growing when they reach a certain size, earthworms can continue to grow without being eaten.

"As long as they are not touched by anyone, this worm will gradually become bigger and bigger," said Dr. Butt. He has 30 years of research experience on earthworms.

When asked if they could bring this worm back to the farm, could they grow to a giant size, Dr. Butt said.

"We can breed this worm in the lab for about a year or two, and they can weigh up to 15, even 20 grams , " he said. Earthworms usually weigh only 4-5 grams, while mice weigh about 12.5 grams. The largest worm found in the 90s Yorkshire Dales weighs about 8 grams.

However, it is difficult to detect this species on Rum island because they will hide deep into the ground if they feel the footsteps of people. According to Dr Butt, worms can be hunted by pouring mustard water into its cave, causing it to be irritated and rise to the ground.