The role of worms in the floor ecosystem

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Introduction Although worms are often overlooked and underestimated, they play an important role in life on our planet. It is largely recognized that worms, scientifically called oligochaeta, significantly influence the floor ecosystem. They improve the soil, promote plant growth and support biodiversity. Without worms, our floor ecosystem would be much poorer. Biology and taxonomy of worms belong to the worms that occur in the ground, especially earthworms (Lumbricidae), but also numerous other species from the families of compostworms and groundworms. There are more than 7,000 known types of earthworms worldwide. Despite their external similarities, these species differ in terms of ...
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introduction

Although worms are often overlooked and underestimated, they play an important role in life on our planet. It is largely recognized that worms, scientifically called oligochaeta, significantly influence the floor ecosystem. They improve the soil, promote plant growth and support biodiversity. Without worms, our floor ecosystem would be much poorer.

biology and taxonomy of worms

The worms that occur in the ground are primarily earthworms (Lumbricidae), but also numerous other species from the families of compostworms and soilworms. There are more than 7,000 known types of earthworms worldwide. Despite their external similarities, these species differ greatly in terms of their ecological functions and their habitat.

anatomy and physiology of worms

Worms are invertebrates with an elongated body that segmented across. They do not have a actual head, but only a front end, which contains their mouth opening. The body of a worm is covered with a moisture -binding cuticula, which enables it to survive in relatively dry soils. Worms breathe through their skin, which means that they are dependent on a damp environment for their breathing.

The ecology of worms

Worms can be found in almost all floors on earth, from the hot deserts to the ice -cold polar regions. They play a crucial role in the ecosystems in which they live.

Improvement of the soil structure

Worms improve the soil structure in a variety of ways. They dig aisles into the ground that facilitate the penetration of water and air and at the same time reduce the risk of soil erosion. These corridors also serve other soil creatures as a habitat and transport routes.

nutrient cycle

Worms contribute to the decomposition of organic materials and are therefore an important part of the nutrient cycle in the soil. They take organic material, such as B. plant remains and animal carcasses, digest it and divide it as a nutrient -rich feces. This process is essential for the fertility of the soil and plant growth.

Promotion of biodiversity

Worms contribute to biodiversity by creating habitats for other soil organisms and serving as food for many birds and other small animals. They are an important part of the food chain in the floor ecosystem.

effects of human activities

Although worms are able to survive, they are still threatened by human activities. Intensive agriculture, pollution and the loss of natural habitats, the survival of many worms is threatened.

worms and agriculture

The intensification of agriculture often has negative effects on the worm populations. The use of pesticides and insecticides, heavy agricultural machinery and monocultures can greatly reduce the populations of worms and thus impair soil life and soil fertility.

worms and climate change

Climate change is also a major challenge for the worm populations. Higher temperatures can affect the activity and reproduction of worms and even lead to death.

conclusions and future perspectives

Since worms are so important for soil health and the entire ecosystem, it is crucial that we better protect them. Through more environmentally friendly agricultural practices and the protection of natural habitats, we can help maintain the variety of worms and populations.

research needs

There is still a great need for research to better understand the ecology of worms and to develop sensible protective measures. This includes studies on determining the optimal conditions for survival and the increase in worms, researching the interactions between worms and other soil organisms as well as for the creation of detailed distribution cards of the various wormart.

The role of worms in sustainable agriculture

In view of the important role that worms play in soil fertility and nutrient cycle, you have the potential to make a valuable contribution to sustainable agriculture. By using worm composting and other forms of worm division, farmers could reduce artificial fertilizers and improve soil health.

Overall, it is clear that worms play an important role in the floor ecosystem. If we understand and accept their meaning and act accordingly, we are a step closer to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world.