How Earthworms Affect Microbial Communities
Author Information
Author(s): Gómez-Brandón María, Aira Manuel, Lores Marta, Domínguez Jorge
Primary Institution: Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
Hypothesis
To what extent does the earthworm Eisenia andrei alter the microbiological properties of fresh organic matter through gut associated processes?
Conclusion
Earthworm gut processes significantly shape microbial communities, leading to a more active but reduced microbial population in egested materials.
Supporting Evidence
- The passage of organic material through the gut of E. andrei reduced total microbial biomass by up to 40%.
- Gram-positive bacteria were reduced more than Gram-negative bacteria after gut transit.
- Fungal populations were less affected than bacterial populations in the egested materials.
Takeaway
Earthworms eat organic matter and change the tiny living things inside it, making them more active but fewer in number when they poop it out.
Methodology
The study analyzed microbial community structure and activity in earthworm casts from three types of animal manure using phospholipid fatty acid profiles and fluorescein diacetate hydrolysis.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on three types of animal manure, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other organic materials.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website