Earthworms – architects of fertile soils

Résumé :

Earthworms are usually the most abundant soil animals in agricultural soils. They are known to
improve physical, chemical and biological properties of soils. Together with soil microorganisms
they have a great potential to enhance soil fertility.
Although much is known about the general taxonomy and biology of earthworms, knowledge about their impact on soils, their interactions with other soil organisms and the influence of farming practices on their populations is increasing only slowly.
This guide summarises the knowledge on earthworms. It gives an overview of the biology, ecology and the multiple services of earthworms to agriculture, and provides recommendations for the promotion of these extraordinary organisms in agricultural soils.