The importance and introduction of earthworms in Southland soils: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the Diploma in Farm Management at Lincoln University

Abstract

The expectations before experimentation were that the soils to be studied, which has a mix of resent developed pasture and uncultivated oversown tussock, are low earthworm. Experiments have been set up to determine the earthworm numbers and species present and how they have changed the soil characteristics such as bulk density, infiltration and organic matter composition. To ascertain what earthworm species are required to further improve soil characteristics and how best to establish them, relevant literature has been reviewed. Some species of earthworm such as A.longa and L.terrestris can not be introduced to the soil by conventional methods, such as the clod method developed by M.A.F.,due to their size and deep burrowing. To make it possible to introduce these species along with the other advantageous species the reproduction rate and optimum temperatures and conditions for cocoon development and earthworm growth have been researched. This information is helpful in making it possible to build up earthworm numbers in breeding for introduction into the soil.