QUESTION: Can worms live in hot compost?
ANSWER: Everyday earthworms that make their way into your compost bin can’t survive the high temperatures compost can generate when it’s working hard, so it’s important that you not trap worms in your compost pile unless you’re using the vermicomposting method. If you have an open compost bin at the bottom, earthworms will come and go as they please and stay away from the hot areas.
Vermicomposting uses worms that are selected for their ability to thrive in compost, and vermicomposting is not a hot composting method. Vermicomposting worms will die in hot compost.