European
Earthworms and Deer in Midwestern Hardwood Forests
Earthworms are not native to the
Upper Midwest. The eight earthworm species present in hardwood
forests are from Europe. These are keystone species that
are able to control the species composition of the plant
and animal communities. The combination of exotic earthworms
and deer are causing decline in species diversity and a
cascade of other ecological effects in hardwood forests.
Center for hardwood ecology is one of the first organizations
to examine the impact of exotic earthworms on native plants,
and the first to do earthworm exclosures in a forest.
Leading
Edge of Invasion Studies and Greenhouse Experiment (Cindy
Hale)
Landscape
Patterns of Invasion and Earthworm Removal Experiment
(Andy Holdsworth) |
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