Importance of Earthworms in Agriculture-Dr. P. C. Patel

Earthworms are known as *ecosystem engineers* because they significantly modify the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the soil profile ¹. They improve the porosity and structural stability of the soil, facilitating the healthy yield of crops. Earthworms loosen and mix the soil, helping to aerate and drain it, which brings nutrients to the surface, making the soil more fertile, and helps prevent flooding and erosion.
In summary, earthworms are crucial in maintaining soil health and fertility by enhancing soil structure and nutrient availability. They are an essential ecosystem component that supports plant growth and contributes to food security.
Role of earthworms in Agriculture
The pH, temperature, salts, aeration, texture, and accessibility of food are among the physical and chemical factors that affect the earthworm population. There are three basic types of earthworms: those that live in soil litter and eat organic stuff degrading in leaf litter. Worms that live in the topsoil or subsoil and dig horizontal caves to feed are classified in the second group. Worms that build long, deep vertical burrows out of plant material fall into the third group. They use these burrows to travel to the surface.
Earthworms help improve saline soil
According to a study published in PLOS ONE, earthworms can contribute to the long-term amelioration of saline soils by enhancing plant growth and improving soil structure. Earthworm casts can also reduce the exchangeable sodium percentage of soil and alleviate soil salinity and sodicity by reducing the salt content in the upper 0-20 cm under brackish water irrigation.
However, it is important to note that the effect of salinity on earthworms' survival and growth is negative ²³. Therefore, while earthworms can help improve saline soil, it is crucial to ensure that the salinity levels are not too high for their survival.