Forests under threat from exotic earthworm invasion: Study shows humans to blame for spread of non-native species
Thursday, September 1, 2011 - 11:31
in Paleontology & Archaeology
It is widely acknowledged that human beings are largely responsible for the widespread alteration of ecosystems on the planet. A recent study traces the ways in which humans are the principal agents of dispersal of exotic earthworms in the forests of Northern America. Their findings suggest that humans spread earthworms both inadvertently via horticulture and land disturbance, in the tires and underbodies of vehicles, but also knowingly through composting and careless disposal of fish bait.