Earthworm burrows act as a channel for plant growth and as pathways for root elongation, especially in compacted zones typically found in deeper soil layers. It makes the soil porous, increasing the water infiltration rate and reducing soil erosion. Some studies even report that earthworms release certain metabolites, such as vitamin B and vitamin D into the soil, which are good for growth of plants.
Various studies also report that earthworms are able to convert barren land into fertile land and increase the agriculture output. This vermicast acts as a buffer; it has a significantly lower volatile solid content and high nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content, which is easily available for the plant. The presence of humic acids and plant growth hormones in vermicast can increase crop yields in both natural and managed ecosystems.
The application of vermicompost with chemical fertilizers and integrated nutrient management reduces the use of chemical fertilizers in the field. The use of these organic amendments can improve the growth of plants in a range of ways; number of leaves, seed germination, root biomass, fruit abundance, number of seeds, and overall yield.
It also improves the nutritional quality of crops by increasing sugar, oil and protein compounds. It is vital that these little creatures in the soil are preserved at any cost to ensure they continue to provide their invaluable services to humankind.
The density of earthworms in […]. Earthworms provide multitude of services for farmers. This brings nutrients to the surface, making the soil more fertile, and helps prevent flooding and erosion.
Earthworm activity in the soil stimulates the bacteria and other microorganisms that live in healthy soil. They really help in farm productivity. As they move through the soil, earthworms loosen and mix it up, helping to aerate and drain it. That is why they are known as farmers best friend. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Email Address. If you are active in the field of plant health or development and would like to contribute to the Plantwise Blog, please contact Donna Hutchinson.
Improved soil structure Earthworm casts cement soil particles together in water-stable aggregates. These are able to store moisture without dispersing. Research has shown that earthworms which leave their casts on the soil surface rebuild topsoil.
One trial found worms built an cm thick topsoil in 30 years. Researchers also found that the most productive pastures in the worm trials had up to 7 million worms per hectare, weighing 2. There was a close correlation between pasture productivity and total worm weight, with some kg of worms for every tonne of annual dry matter production. How to encourage earthworms Because earthworms do not like soil that is too acid, alkaline, dry, wet, hot or cold, their presence is a good indicator of soil conditions suitable for plant growth.
Ensure soil pH CaCl 2 is above 4. The addition of lime raises pH and also adds calcium. Earthworms need a continuous supply of calcium, so are absent in soils low in this element.
South Australian research found that earthworm numbers doubled when pH CaCl 2 rose from 4. The CaC1 2 method is more accurate and gives values of about 0. Increase organic matter Earthworms feed on soil and dead or decaying plant remains, including straw, leaf litter and dead roots. They are the principal agents in mixing dead surface litter with the soil, making the litter more accessible to decomposition by soil microorganisms.
Animal dung is also an attractive food for many species of earthworms. The following farming practices provide food for earthworms. Some live in water, and some live on land. Burrowing annelids, like the earthworm, play an important role in helping organic matter decompose. Earthworms eat dead plants and animals. When they eat, they also take in soil and tiny pebbles. Earthworms take in nutrients from microorganisms in the material they ingest.
They then excrete wastes in the form of casts. Protecting these animals is crucially important to help maintain the health and balance of nutrients in the soil. Find out more about the unsung heroes looking after our soil. Did you know that despite all the good they do, a recent report has found that under agricultural intensification earthworm populations are in critical decline? Help us campaign for more support for farming systems that preserve their habitats and food sources, working in harmony with nature.
While some people may not think them the most attractive of animals, worms play a vital role. So what role do earthworms play?
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