Last updated on June 11th, 2024 at 06:44 pm
Earthworms are often overlooked as something that is not necessary and just takes up space in the garden, but what if you found out some earthworm facts? In this article, we’re going to explore 8 unexpected facts about earthworms!
What do Earthworms do?
Earthworms are not worm-like. They can’t move like worms and, in fact, live underwater. They’re not even an animal that most people would consider a worm. Earthworms are the unsung heroes of soil ecology. They feed on organic material, preventing insects and pathogens from destroying the soil. Earthworm are invertebrates and live as parasitic worms in the guts of animals including humans. They have no eyes, but they have a symbiotic relationship with bacteria that live in their intestinal tract. They play an important role in the digestive process by eating and breaking down the food waste from other animals. They also help with composting by eating dead plant material and their castings, or waste products, can be used for fertilizer.
How many Earthworms can there be?
There are approximately 2.5 to 3.5 billion earthworms on Earth, which makes up about a third of the world’s total number of living organisms. They live in every continent except Antarctica and can be found in every single country on Earth. They also come in different sizes, with the smallest earthworm being only 0.22 millimeters long and the largest being 11 centimeters long- pretty impressive! How many earthworms can there be?
What ecosystem benefits do earthworms provide?
Earthworms form a very important part of the ecosystem. They decompose organic material, which provides nutrients for plants and animals. They also help to aerate the soil, preventing erosion from damaging nearby areas. Earthworms are also a food source for many birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects. Earthworms are essential to the health of all soil and help incorporate organic matter, helping to maintain healthy soil. Earthworms also play a major role in nutrient cycling, helping the plants around them grow and putting carbon back into the ground. These tiny creatures also break down organic material in the topsoil, improving drainage and eliminating potential sources of water pollution.
Benefits of including worms in your garden
Earthworms are incredibly beneficial to your garden! Not only do they multiply quickly, but they aerate the soil and help prevent plant diseases. They also produce nutrients that contribute to healthy plants and a thriving ecosystem. Earthworms are essential for gardeners who have limited space or live in areas with poor soil. Earthworms are a natural pest control for your garden, as well as providing organic fertilizers. They also help to aerate soil and make it more conducive for plant growth. Earthworms are often killed off by pesticides, so you’ll want to include them in your garden if you’re planning on using these products.
How do worms eat and digest soil
Earthworms are critical for healthy soil because they are able to eat and digest organic matter. They also form tunnels in the dirt, helping plants grow by making their roots more accessible. When their population increases, earthworms can even help farmers increase the amount of crops they produce. Earthworms digest solid particles in the soil and pass them through their digestive system. The worms are able to break down leaves, roots, dead plants and animals, rocks, logs, and soil into tiny fragments of organic matter that they then use as food.
Earthworms may sound like something we want to eradicate, but they’re actually an important part of a healthy ecosystem. When you think about it, earthworms are vital to the soil as they help break down leaves and other plant matter into nutrients that plants can then use. Earthworms are also good for our water supply by converting soil into rich, verdant land by eating dead leaves that could otherwise turn into a layer of toxic sludge.
