The use of enchytraeids in ecological soil classification and assessment concepts

In many soils worldwide, enchytraeids (Annelida: Oligochaeta) play a major role in soil functions like the decomposition of organic matter. In addition, standardized sampling methods are available and taxonomic as well as ecological knowledge is rapidly increasing (in particular, ecological profiles of the most abundant species). For these reasons, enchytraeids were recognized as a part of ecological classification and assessment schemes. In this contribution, the most important of these schemes are presented and it is shown that enchytraeids are most valuable as part of a battery approach. By use of examples from The Netherlands (BISQ), and Germany (BBSK), the practicability of the use of enchytraeids is demonstrated in identifying the influence of different anthropogenic land use forms. In these cases, the structure of the enchytraeid community and their abundance and biomass were used as endpoints. However, automation of the identification process can still be improved.