Glossoscolex matogrossensis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Glossoscolex matogrossensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching across the Cerrado savanna, which has eliminated vast areas of its native grassland habitat. Intensive farming practices, including heavy pesticide use and soil compaction from livestock, directly degrade the soil ecosystems this giant earthworm depends upon. Urban development and infrastructure projects further fragment remaining suitable habitat patches.
Habitat
This large earthworm species inhabits the deep, well-drained soils of Brazil's Cerrado savanna ecosystem, particularly in areas with rich organic matter and stable moisture levels. It requires undisturbed grassland soils where it can construct extensive burrow systems up to several meters deep.