Asian Invasive Earthworms of the Genus Amynthas Kinberg in Vermont

Abstract We are reporting on established populations and sightings of species in the genus Amynthas in Vermont, from Quechee (43°38′N) central-eastern Vermont to Alburgh (44°58′N) on the northwest border to Canada. To our knowledge, these are the first sightings of Amynthas spp. reported for Vermont. Invasive Asian earthworms of the genus Amynthas were found at three of twelve forested locations surveyed for invasive European earthworms. In addition, Amynthas was found in a number of horticultural settings. We evaluated soils and climate information for forested sites with Amynthas in Vermont and compared climate with the original range and more southern US sites. Our findings suggest that Amynthas may expand its range even further north than Vermont and that the freeze-free period required for maturation is approximately 90 days.