Earthworms Effect on Microbial Population and Soil Fertility as Well as Their Interaction with Agriculture Practices (original) (raw)

Abstract

Earthworms mix soil layers and bind the soil with organic matter. This combination allows organic matter to disperse through the soil and also allows plants to access the nutrients they retains and enhance the soil’s fertility. Earthworms improve the soil’s biological, chemical, and physical characteristics and serve as soil conditioners. They do so by dissolution, aeration, soil organic breakdown, the release of plant nutrients, and their role in the fastening of nitrogen due to plant growth hormone secretion. However, a variety of soil and environmental factors influence the soil population. Furthermore, it remains uncertain how soil worms modify soil microbial communities’ composition and how they impact the soil’s microbial process. By feeding on microorganisms or selecting and stimulating specific microbial groups, earthworms reduce microbes’ activity and abundance. Earthworms directly impact the plant’s growth and recycling of nutrients but are mainly mediated by indirect micr...

Key takeaways

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  1. Earthworms significantly enhance soil fertility through mixing layers, nutrient cycling, and microbial community modulation.
  2. The review aims to explore earthworms' interactions with soil microbial populations and agricultural practices.
  3. Earthworms can release 60-70 kg of nitrogen per hectare annually, improving nutrient availability in soil.
  4. Soil factors such as moisture, pH, and organic matter significantly influence earthworm population dynamics.
  5. Earthworm activities can positively impact crop production, with 43% of studies reporting biomass increases exceeding 20%.

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FAQs

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What explains the relationship between earthworms and soil microbial communities?add

The study reveals that earthworms significantly alter soil microbial communities, enriching them particularly with bacterial taxa capable of decomposing organic matter. The interaction creates a 'hot moment' effect, enhancing microbial activity and diversity within localized soil regions.

How do agricultural practices impact earthworm populations?add

Tillage practices were shown to decrease earthworm populations significantly, particularly in clay loam soils. Conversely, no-tillage management systems encourage earthworm abundance, showcasing the adaptability of earthworm communities to various agricultural practices.

What are the mechanisms by which earthworms enhance soil fertility?add

Earthworms improve soil fertility by enhancing organic matter turnover and nutrient cycling, significantly increasing nitrogen availability through the decomposition of their biomass. It is estimated that Lumbricus terrestris alone can return 60-70 kg of nitrogen per year to English woodlands.

How do earthworms affect nitrogen and phosphorus dynamics in soils?add

The paper indicates that earthworms enhance nitrogen mineralization, with up to 70% mineralization occurring within 20-10 days post-decomposition. Earthworm casts demonstrate significantly higher concentrations of available phosphorus, up to four times greater than surrounding soils.

What impact do earthworms have on soil structure and water retention?add

Earthworms improve soil structure by creating macro-pores that enhance water infiltration and retention, potentially decreasing runoff by up to 75%. Their burrowing activities also lead to more stable soil aggregates, important for maintaining soil fertility.