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Free Lecture: Underground Invaders – Centuries Of Non-Native Earthworms and New “Jumping Worms”
May 7 @ 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Non-native earthworms have been invading Canadian soils for centuries, filling ecological niches left empty after the most recent glacial retreat. As ecosystem engineers, earthworms can dramatically alter soil and vegetation communities once they invade. While earthworms can be beneficial in your garden or farm field, earthworm invasion into more natural areas can have negative impacts on native biodiversity. This talk will provide an overview of earthworm invasion in Canada and describe the recent discovery of “jumping worms” in the Toronto ravines, including the threats they pose to these sensitive ecosystems and what you can do to help!Dr. Michael J. McTavish is a postdoctoral research fellow working with the Smith Forest Health Lab at the University of Toronto. His current research includes biological control of non-native invasive plants (Phragmites and garlic mustard) and the ecology of non-native earthworms.Join Zoom Meeting:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82560691247?pwd=QmtCK2NSZWRTRjVlMzJ5T3NjZm1Pdz09Meeting ID: 825 6069 1247Passcode: 622620Access by Phone: 1-647-558-0588
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