European Nightcrawler
The European night crawler is the most commonly used composting insect, second only to the red wobbler. Since it is large, it can also be convenient to use as a hunting toilet. However, they are slower eaters than their red wobbler cousins. If you don't plan to use them for hunting at all, consider using red zigzags instead.
European night crawlers are sometimes called "super red" because they are similar in color but larger than the red meander. Euro was originally known as Dendrobina veneta but was later reclassified as Azenia hortensis.
Identification of the European night crawler
European night crawlers are:
About 4 inches in length, fully extended.
About the diameter of a pencil.
Dark red color with underlight.
Bigger than the red wobbler.
Go slow with Indian Blue Wiggler.
Get a bare saddle/sneaker.
It does not contain a glossy shine.
Bending will occur when stretched.
Be on the topmost layer of the earth's mantle (the lagen).
Size, colour, and markings
European night crawlers look very similar to red meanders (but larger). Their tails are slightly flattened (but not like Canadian night-crawlers), and the yellow markings that red wigglers develop are sometimes more noticeable in eur. The European night crawler also has a prominent clitoris or saddle.
It moves at the same speed as the red wobbler and is definitely slower than the Indian or African blue night crawler. The euro is a bright red color with a light undercap.
Environment
Most composting insects live in, enjoying a moist environment. However, care must be taken that it is not too wet. The additional wetness may not bother the European night crawler, but it may draw bugs and other insects that will make taking care of your Euro unpleasant (and odorous).
Since urethra do not have lungs and obtain oxygen through diffusion, it is important to provide adequate airflow to your colony. If you are using a box, you can punch holes in the side to provide ventilation. If your jars are protected from the rain, you can cut a section out of your box and attach the baffle to the lid, which will generally work better. During the day, this check will encourage your friends to stay indoors instead of looking outside.
What to feed the European night crawler
The nutritional requirements of European nightcrawlers are similar to most other compost insects. Bedding, such as shredded newspaper or shredded cardboard, is essential to start with. Coconut coconut is also a favourite.
Euro enjoys eating leftover vegetables and fruits as well as grains. However, avoid citrus fruits and pineapple, as well as most meat and dairy products. Citrus fruits and pineapples contain enzymes that can damage them. The meat and milk will attract flies, which will lead to worms. While worms aren't necessarily a bad thing, they aren't pleasant to look at and they don't leave much vermicompost behind after eating. Don't overfeed the worms, and try burying kitchen scraps under vermicompost or bedding. This will help repel ants and cockroaches.
I don't think it's possible to have too many beds as long as the amount of humidity and airflow is sufficient. Some grease, like sand or eggshells, will make it easier for your insect friends to break down waste, too.
Where do you get the European night crawler?
Even though they require patience to develop, European night crawlers are among the most accessible insects. Most bait shops and fishing specialty stores will have Euros for sale. This is how I started a colony of Euros - I bought about 15 of them at Walmart.
They have been the colonies' most successful and easiest to care for to date. If you want to start your vermicomposting process, you can buy in bulk. This will cost less per worm, but the initial costs will be higher.
An excellent choice for vermicomposting
In general, the European night creeper is an excellent choice for vermicomposting. They are not picky about their environment and will not attempt to escape unless something is wrong with your trash.
They are not as prolific as red wobblers and do not digest as much waste, but they are much larger than red, which makes them more desirable as fishing bait.Compared to certain tropical insects like the Indian blue and African night crawler, they can survive lower temperatures.
This material is accurate and correct to the best of the author's knowledge and is not intended as a substitute for formal, individual advice from a qualified professional.
0 Comments