The jumping worm, Amynthas agrestis, is an invasive earthworm capable of harming native forests that has been recently reported in some areas of California. This pest devours leaf litter and other organic matter, changing soil texture and nutrient availability to a point where some plants may be unable to survive. Its feeding can lead to a decline in diversity and population of native plants and other organisms within forests.

Although these worms are native to eastern Asia, they have been detected in dozens of states; including Massachusetts, New York, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Jumping worms have since moved west to Washington...