A new, unwelcome visitor is creeping into gardens across the United States, prompting officials to warn Californians to be vigilant.

The Asian jumping worm, a highly invasive species, has already made its presence known in several states, including California. This has led agricultural authorities to raise the alarm.

According to a statement from the Colorado Department of Agriculture, “The jumping worms’ intense activity disrupts soil structure, damages plant roots, and hastens soil drying. This results in a ‘nutrient-poor paradox’ where nutrients, although present, become inaccessible to plants. Such conditions can worsen the state’s existing drought issues.”

These worms are quite distinctive and hard to miss.

They have a smooth texture, with a dark gray or brown hue, and a notable flat, milky-white band encircling their bodies near the head.

Straddling the line between a gardener’s worst nightmare and a sci-fi enthusiast’s dream, the Asian jumping worm is known for its ability to leap a foot into the air. This vigorous thrashing behavior bears an uncanny resemblance to the legendary Star Trek dish, Gagh, adding a touch of science fiction to this real-world menace.

They also have a bizarre escape tactic, if grabbed by the tail, they can snap it off to get away.

Even more alarming is how quickly they multiply.

The species reproduces without mating, meaning every worm is capable of producing offspring on its own.

Experts warn that just one worm, or even a tiny cocoon hidden in soil or mulch, can trigger a full-blown infestation in a new location.

Beyond wrecking soil, the worms may also pose a threat to wildlife.

Researchers have found they can be toxic to certain native birds and salamanders, disrupting local ecosystems and stripping away key food sources.

Download The California Post App, follow us on social, and subscribe to our newsletters

With no reliable way to eliminate them once established, officials are urging residents to focus on prevention.

“Do not try to control jumping worms with pesticides. There are currently no registered pesticide products for this pest,” according to the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Using pesticide products not intended or labeled for the jumping worm is illegal and can kill beneficial earthworms and cause harm to the environment.”

Officials say you should carefully inspect any materials or soil brought into gardens.

Buyers are also advised to choose bare-root plants when possible and confirm that bulk mulch or compost has been heat-treated to at least 130°F for three days to destroy hidden cocoons.