The Common Earthworm (Lumbricus terrestris) is a widely distributed worm species around the world. The species forms temporary deep burrows and only surfaces to feed; this is different than most earthworms that burrow through the soil for their food. While the Common Earthworm is not the most abundant earthworm, it is a very familiar species in garden and agricultural soils of the temperate zone. In appearance it is reddish-gray, and the worm’s first segment contains its mouth. The diet consists of soil, where the nutrients are extracted from decomposing organic matter like leaves and roots.