Did you know that the Giant Gippsland Earthworm is only found in south-west Gippsland? Growing up to 2 metres long, this underground giant is a natural wonder — but the future of this threatened species is uncertain.

Water Technology Pty Ltd are working in collaboration with the Gippsland Threatened Species Action Group, the Bass Coast Landcare Network, the South Gippsland Landcare Network, Invert-Eco and Drift Media as part of the ‘Threat Mitigation and Soil Hydrology for the Giant Gippsland Earthworm’ project, which is being funded by The Australian Government Saving Native Species (Priority Species) Program.

Alteration of the water table and natural drainage patterns, exacerbated by climate change, is one of the most serious threats to Giant Gippsland Earthworm populations yet is poorly understood. Water Technology are involved in the project to help accurately measure and assess soil moisture, temperature and oxygen levels in thriving Giant Gippsland Earthworm colonies in comparison to adjacent habitats not supporting the Giant Gippsland Earthworm.

This week Water Technology’s Principal Ecologist, Michael (Mike) Aberton, is presenting some preliminary results of the soil monitoring program which is increasing the knowledge of the soil hydrology requirements for colonies to help their survival in the long-term.

Other aspects of the program include a large-scale census survey and the development of case studies.

You can find out more at the Giant Gippsland Earthworm program website: https://www.giantearthworm.org.au/index.htm 

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