Invertebrate · Other invertebrate
European nightcrawler care guide
Eisenia hortensis
The european nightcrawler is a beginner-level other invertebrate from Europe. Adults reach Body 7–15 cm and live 2–5 years in captivity. Aerates bioactive soil and makes a good feeder; avoid in very hot setups.
- Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
- Temp 15–24°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a european nightcrawler cost in Canada?
European nightcrawler quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 7–15 cm
- Lifespan
- 2–5 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Europe
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- A colony species – best kept in a group.
- Temperature
- 15–24°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Detritivore – decaying leaves, vegetable scraps, castings
- Bioactive style
- Invertebrate colony
European nightcrawler enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). A colony species – best kept in a group. This species suits a invertebrate colony bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix10 cm
Leaf litter is food here, not decoration – keep a thick layer topped up. Keep one side damper than the other.
Temperature: 15–24°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a european nightcrawler eat?
Detritivore – decaying leaves, vegetable scraps, castings. Add vegetable scraps or leaf litter weekly.
Handling, temperament & health
Harmless and easy to handle.
Health watch: Overheating above 27°C and waterlogged soil kill worms.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Nothing needed most days.
Weekly
- Mist the damp side; add vegetables or protein food in small amounts and remove leftovers after 24–48 h.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter and add a calcium source (cuttlebone).
- Thin out the colony or split it if it gets crowded.
Yearly
- Replace about a third of the soil, which turns into frass over time.
Recommended for a european nightcrawler bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).
European nightcrawler FAQ
Is the european nightcrawler good for beginners?
Yes – the european nightcrawler is a good choice for beginners. Harmless and easy to handle.
What size enclosure does a european nightcrawler need?
At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. A colony species – best kept in a group.
How much does a european nightcrawler cost in Canada?
Typically $15–30 CAD to buy, about $100–170 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $10–20 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a european nightcrawler need?
Temperature: 15–24°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a european nightcrawler eat?
Detritivore – decaying leaves, vegetable scraps, castings. Add vegetable scraps or leaf litter weekly.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.