Vermivore (from Latin vermi, meaning "worm" and vorare, "to devour") is azoological term for animals that primarily eatworms (includingannelids,nematodes, and other worm-like animals).[1] Animals with such a diet are known to bevermivorous.[2] Some definitions are less exclusive with respect to the diet, but limit the definition to particular animals, e.g. "Feeding on worms or insect vermin. Used of a bird."[3]
An entire genus of New World warblers has been given the nameVermivora.
One vermivore that may feed exclusively on worms isPaucidentomys vermidax, arodent species of a type commonly known as shrew rats which was discovered in 2011 inIndonesia. The name, which can be translated as "worm-eating, few-toothed mouse", refers to the fact that they have only four teeth and may live exclusively on a diet ofearthworms.[4] This reduceddentition in vermivorous mammals is said to be due to relaxed selectional pressure on dentalocclusion.[5]
The process of getting worms and using them as a source of nutrients, whether by animals (in nature) or humans (in food systems or composting), involves several biological and/or ecological steps. Here's a breakdown depending on the context:
Detection: Vermivores use their senses, like smell, vibration detection, or sight, to locate worms underground or above ground.
Extraction: Vermivores will dig or peck their way to the worm or what til they come to the surface(usually at night or in the rain). Then they retrieve it.
Ingestion: The worm is consumed whole or in parts.
Digestion and Absorption: Worms are high in protein, amino acids, iron, and moisture.[6] Vermivor’s digestive system breaks the worm down into usable nutrients, absorbed into the bloodstream for energy and growth.[7]
^Esselstyn, J.A., Achmadi, A.S. Rowe, K.C. (2012). Evolutionary novelty in a rat with no molars. Biology Letters, published online 22 August 2012,doi:10.1098/rsbl.2012.0574
