Controlled Cultivation of Endogeic and Anecic Earthworms

Abstract

Cultivation of epigeic earthworms is relatively simple as these species live within the same organic-rich substrate that they utilise as a food source. Endogeic and anecic species which require a substrate containing a high proportion of mineral soil are seemingly less easily produced. However, these species are potentially of value in a range of ecological contexts. Basic information of the life history of a given species may be collected through controlled cultivation. The natural activities of soil dwelling species can be an asset in soil restoration where earthworms are present in low numbers or totally absent for anthropogenic reasons. Production of stock to act as potential reference sources for DNA-related studies and other applied (e.g. ecotoxicological) research. In the future, mass production of endogeic and anecic earthworm species might also benefit wider ecosystem rehabilitation.