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Exotic earthworm effects on hardwood forest floor, nutrient availability and native plants: a mesocosm study.

Cindy M Hale1, Lee E Frelich, Peter B Reich

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European earthworm invasions significantly alter North American forest ecosystems. These invasive species impact soil structure, nutrient availability, and native plant communities, causing increased mortality and reduced biomass.

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Area of Science:

  • Ecology
  • Soil Science
  • Invasive Species Biology

Background:

  • European earthworm invasions are a growing concern in North American forests.
  • Understanding their impact on native ecosystems is crucial for conservation.
  • Forest floor and soil properties are vital for ecosystem health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of three European earthworm species on North American forest floor and soil.
  • To assess impacts on nutrient availability (N and P) and native understory plant species.
  • To compare individual and combined effects of earthworm invasions.

Main Methods:

  • Greenhouse mesocosm experiment simulating North American Acer-dominated forest conditions.
  • Introduction of three European earthworm species: Dendrobaena octaedra, Lumbricus rubellus, and Lumbricus terrestris.
  • Measurement of forest floor/soil horizons, N and P availability, and native plant (Acer saccharum, Aquilegia canadensis, Aralia racemosa, Carex pensylvanica) mortality and biomass.

Main Results:

  • Combined earthworm species caused significant O horizon loss and increased A horizon thickness.
  • Elevated N and P availability observed, potentially a transient initial effect.
  • Increased native plant mortality and decreased total plant biomass, with some species having greater impact than others.

Conclusions:

  • European earthworm invasions initiate a cascade of impacts on North American forest ecosystems.
  • Alterations in plant community composition and soil properties are significant.
  • Findings corroborate field studies on the ecological consequences of earthworm invasions.