Jumping worms – Amynthas spp., Metaphire spp., Pheretima spp.
Jumping worms are invasive earthworms most likely to be seen in August and September. They’re identified by the thrashing and jumping they do when disturbed. They are smooth, glossy and rubbery, instead of slimy, and the pale ring (clitellum) that encircles the body can distinguish them from other earthworms.
Jumping worms are fast eaters with a big appetite. They’ll breakdown the topsoil layer too quickly, leading to altered soil structure and chemistry that is not ideal for native plants. The altered soil also has a reduced capacity for holding water, which can increase erosion.
To limit their spread, do not move mulch, soil or plants from other areas or yards. They can carry eggs or live worms. Reports of jumping worms have been confirmed in Mississauga.
Report any jumping worm sightings to our Invasive Species team.
Learn more about jumping worms.
Oak Wilt – Bretziella fagacearum
Oak wilt is caused by a non-native fungus, Bretziella fagacearum, that grows in the sapwood under the bark of the tree. It cuts off the flow of water and nutrients, quickly killing healthy oak trees in as little as two weeks to a year from the time of infection. The fruity smelling fungus attracts beetles which spread the fungal spores between trees as they travel.
Symptoms to watch for include early leaf drop, leaf discoloration starting at the top of the tree, cracks in bark and a fruity smell coming from a dead tree.
Trees are more at risk when they have open cuts. Therefore, oaks trees should only be pruned when the insects are not in their active phase, from December to March. Additionally, don’t move firewood, as it could contain fungal spores. The fungus can also move through connected roots, so early detection is important.
Oak wilt has been confirmed in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls and Springwater near Barrie.
Report suspected oak wilt to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and to CVC’s invasive species team.