Abstract
In this study, ecological diversity and species richness of earthworms were examined in different habitats of Sylhet Metropolitan area of Bangladesh. A total of eight earthworm species such as Eisenia fetida, Amynthus aspergillum, Aporrectodea caliginosa, Aporrectodea longa, Lumbricus castaneus, Lumbricus terrestris, Lumbricus rubellus and Octolasion cyaneum were morphologically identified from this study. The diversity and distribution of earthworm species related to species abundance was also investigated. Highest earthworm abundance was recorded in Kazitula while it was the minimal in case of Baluchor locality. The species E. fetida dominated in all the habitats. The relative density and species diversity index showed the species inhabiting particular habitat. The entire observation clearly indicated that the richness of earthworm biodiversity in that study location was high.
Highlights
Earthworms though well studied organisms all over the world are badly neglected in Bangladesh
Different chemical parameters of the soil such as pH, K, P, S concentration was tested which was related to the abundance of earthworm species (Table 1)
Highest earthworm abundance was recorded in Kazitula (140)
Summary
Earthworms though well studied organisms all over the world are badly neglected in Bangladesh. It has been stated that more than 3000 species of earthworms are known but no taxonomic record was found in Bangladesh. Earthworms are an important organism in the soil doing great service for mankind for millions of years now. Earthworms are an important organism in the soil doing great service for mankind for millions of years It combines immense social, economic and environmental values together which is being realized and recognized. A newer branch of biotechnology called ‘Vermiculture Technology’ is emerging by the use of earthworms to solve various environmental problems from waste management to land (soil) improvement. Earthworms when present in soil inevitably work as ‘soil conditioner’ to improve its physical, chemical and biological properties and its nutritive value for healthy plant growth. Increased activities potentially favors increase in aeration, aggregate stability, water infiltration, mixing and decomposition of plants residue, availability of organic and inorganic nutrients, which directly or indirectly enhances the productivity of soil
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