Re: VRD--Could you please explain the relative strength of worms?

Hi Henry,

The relative strength of an earthworm can be measured by the mass of the particles it is able to drag through its burrow. Worms carry chips of wood and other materials up to the surface which they deposit on a midden (a well defined area near the burrow entrance used as a rubbish dump). By examining the mass of particles deposited on the midden, a relative estimate of the strength of different worms can be obtained. For an example of the use of this method check out an article in the Nando Times called Earthworms can carry a load.

Since ants also use middens it should be possible to compare the relative strength of ants and worms, although I have never heard of this being done. If an attempt were to be made, it would be important to control for physical constraints (such as the diameter of the burrow, number of twists and turns etc.), since the burrows of ants and worms are likely to have very different structures.

I hope this helps,

Regards,

Rob Cruickshank