Earthworm Species from Diverse Ecological Groups Negatively Affect Enchytraeid Density in a Forest Ecosystem
Kamil Karaban1, Anita Kaliszewicz1, Krassimira Ilieva-Makulec1
1Institute of Biological Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University in Warsaw, Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938 Warsaw, Poland.
Biology
|September 27, 2025
Summary
Earthworms negatively impact enchytraeid populations in forest soils. The effect varies by earthworm species, density, and soil layer, with significant impacts observed in the litter layer.
Area of Science:
- Soil ecology
- Soil biology
- Ecosystem interactions
Background:
- Earthworms and enchytraeids are crucial soil organisms affecting soil processes.
- Interactions between these soil fauna groups are poorly understood.
- Understanding these interactions is vital for soil ecology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of five key earthworm species on enchytraeid abundance.
- To analyze these effects across varying earthworm densities and soil horizons.
- To compare earthworm effects under controlled mesocosm conditions.
Main Methods:
- Field mesocosm experiment with five Central European earthworm species.
- Studied earthworm density gradients in litter and mineral soil horizons.
- Monitored enchytraeid abundance in response to earthworm presence.
Main Results:
- All tested earthworm species reduced enchytraeid density.
- The negative effect was dependent on earthworm species, density, and soil layer.
- Epigeic *L. rubellus*, endogeic *A. caliginosa*, and anecic *L. terrestris* were most impactful.
- Higher earthworm densities led to greater reductions in enchytraeids.
- The litter layer showed the most significant impact on enchytraeid populations.
Conclusions:
- Earthworm presence negatively influences enchytraeid populations.
- Specific earthworm species and densities exert varying degrees of control.
- These findings are crucial for predicting ecosystem changes in new habitats.
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