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In-Burrow Behavior of Earthworms

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Abstract

Several classes of earthworm behavior were studied in a three-dimensional, semi-natural habitat. Descriptions of burrowing, foraging, feeding, and mating behavior were obtained. In addition, the worms were exposed to light, air, and vibratory stimulation while in their burrows. Light and intermittent vibration consistently elicited responses while air was an ineffective stimulus.

A second study investigated the effects of a light-dark cycle and the time of day upon the amount of burrowing by the earthworm. The light cycle did not affect the distance burrowed, but time of day did have a significant effect upon the amount of burrowing activity.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska, 68131, USA

    Louis E. Gardner

  2. Michigan State University, USA

    Stanley C. Ratner

Authors
  1. Louis E. Gardner
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  2. Stanley C. Ratner
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Additional information

This research was supported by Research Grant GB-917 from the National Science Foundation to the second author. The authors are grateful to Stanley Smith and Maureen Hattle who served as research assistants in this project.

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Gardner, L.E., Ratner, S.C. In-Burrow Behavior of Earthworms. Psychol Rec 20, 387–394 (1970). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03393957

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03393957

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