An Overview on Earthworm and Soil Toxicology Studies

Author: Akhila A. and Keshamma E.

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Abstract

Since the late 1960s, the study of soil ecotoxicology has gained popularity. There are numerous studies on the effects of various classes of pesticides on aquatic life and humans. Although there is a dearth of data in this area of ecotoxicology, adverse effects of pesticides on soil invertebrate fauna have also been studied over time. Earthworms have recently become recognized as useful model organisms in the study of soil ecotoxicology. With earthworms, it is possible to study the effects of different pesticides, contaminants in the soil, and their residues. When exposed to dangerous chemical substances, they exhibit changes in morphology, behavior, fecundity, and biochemical components. Although the toxicity of metal contaminated soils has been assessed with various bioassays, more information is needed about the biochemical responses, which may help to elucidate the mechanisms involved in metal toxicity. Previously reported that the earthworm, Eisenia fetida, accumulates cadmium in its seminal vesicles. The bio-accumulative ability of earthworms is well known, and thus the earthworm could be a useful living organism for the bio-monitoring of soil pollution. Here, different aspects point of view of use of earthworms in study of soil toxicology have been summarized.

Keywords

Earthworm, Ecosystem, Soil toxicity, Biomonitoring

Conclusion

Understanding the long-term effects of various environmental pollutants and chemicals present in the soil ecosystem is the ultimate goal of soil toxicological studies. It also necessitates a deeper understanding of the mechanisms by which different chemicals and their residues are neutralized in biological systems, how they affect various metabolic pathways, and how they can affect soil-dwelling organisms at sub-lethal concentrations. While earthworms can be an important part of these studies, more research in the field of soil ecotoxicology should focus on extending the range of test organisms to include numerous ecologically significant soil fauna. The effects of various chemicals on multiple generations can also be investigated, which may reveal details about how the soil fauna adapts and changes under challenging circumstances. Furthermore, based on the information provided by earthworms, it is unclear how the degree of soil pollution should be assessed. Although numerous studies have been carried out, to our knowledge no standardized methodology has been established. It will take more research to develop a more comprehensive bio-monitoring technique that evaluates soil pollution using earthworms.

References

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How to cite this article

Akhila A. and Keshamma E. (2023). An Overview on Earthworm and Soil Toxicology Studies. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(3): 778-783.