Earthworms: Nature’s Soil Engineers and the Consequences of Their Decline
Growing up in Cherthala, Alappuzha, I remember digging into the soil as a child and often uncovering earthworms. They were a familiar and vital part of the environment. But today, in the same area, it’s rare to see them. This shift is more than just a small observation; it reflects a broader environmental issue. The disappearance of earthworms is a sign of the damage caused by human activities, which threaten not only earthworms but also the health of the soil and the ecosystems they support. Earthworms: Nature’s Essential Soil Engineers Earthworms play a crucial role in maintaining soil health, offering vital ecological services that support life on Earth. Their contribution to soil structure, nutrient recycling, and water retention makes them indispensable to ecosystems. Soil Aeration and Structure Earthworms create tunnels in the soil, allowing air and water to circulate, which is vital for plant root development. This natural aeration prevents soil compaction and enhances plant gro...