International Journal For Multidisciplinary Research

E-ISSN: 2582-2160     Impact Factor: 9.24

A Widely Indexed Open Access Peer Reviewed Multidisciplinary Bi-monthly Scholarly International Journal

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Role of Earthworms in Soil Fertility and Its Impact on Agriculture

Author(s) Ms. Dipti VERMA
Country India
Abstract Earthworms play a fundamental role in maintaining soil fertility and promoting sustainable agriculture. Often referred to as “nature’s ploughmen,” earthworms improve soil structure through their burrowing activity, which enhances aeration, drainage, and root penetration. Their feeding habits help in the decomposition of organic matter, converting it into nutrient-rich castings that are high in essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium—key nutrients for plant growth. Earthworms significantly contribute to humification, enriching the soil with stable organic matter (humus) that improves water-holding capacity and cation exchange. Their activity also supports beneficial microbial populations that accelerate nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. In agricultural systems, the presence of earthworms is often associated with better crop yield, enhanced soil fertility, and improved resistance to pests and diseases. Vermicomposting, an applied technique using earthworms to convert organic waste into biofertilizer, is gaining importance as an eco-friendly and cost-effective practice. This method not only reduces chemical input but also improves soil health in the long term. Earthworms also act as biological indicators of soil quality, making them vital for soil monitoring. This paper aims to review the various ecological functions of earthworms and analyze their direct and indirect benefits on agricultural productivity. Emphasizing the conservation and utilization of earthworm populations can lead to more sustainable and resilient farming systems worldwide.
Keywords Earthworms, Soil Fertility, Vermicomposting, Sustainable Agriculture, Nutrient Cycling
Field Biology > Zoology
Published In Volume 7, Issue 4, July-August 2025
Published On 2025-07-03
DOI https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2025.v07i04.50017

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