Introduction

When we think of earthworms, we often envision those small wriggling creatures that made their presence known after a rainstorm. Simple invertebrates, earthworms make major belowground contributions to healthy soils and, by extension, to ecosystem function. Because of this important work they do underground, earthworms are often referred to as “silent engineers of the soil,” assisting plants, animals, and even us.

Scientific Overview

The earthworms are members of the phylum Annelida, better known as segmented worms. Besides their segmented body, earthworms can be characterized according to their cylindrical shape having a mouth to anus well-developed digestive system. Earthworms take organic matter in decaying state. Further decomposition and mixing into the soil is done. The products obtained from the processing are nutrient-rich castings that enrich the fertility of the soil.

Economic Importance

The earthworm has very serious consequences on soil health. During burrowing activities, earthworms do tend to make the soil loose, and soil gets aerated. This is so because their burrowing is deep enough to allow air and water to reach further into the soil easily. An improved structure in this way is seen to help plant roots absorb more nutrients and water for better and healthy plant growth. Also, the excreta of the earthworms—more commonly referred to as castings—are highly filled with nitrogen and other nutrients required in plant growth.

Vermiculture and Soil Fertility

Vermiculture is also on the rise—a process of decomposition of organic wastes using such invertebrates to produce high-value organic fertilizer called vermicompost. The resulting vermicompost retains its nutrient content and improves the structure of the soil. So it is an environmentally friendly substitute for chemical fertilizers. It has been increasingly adopted into farming and gardening because it offers a highly sustainable and efficient mode of operation.

Conclusion

Although small and insignificant, earthworms are more valued in our ecosystem. These creatures help so much in sustaining a healthy environment and promote plant growth. Hard work by worms underground loosens the soil and hence enriches it with nutrients.