Earthworms of South 24 Parganas with Ecological Notes

Earthworms occur in diversified habitats from organic heaps (manure, compost, litter, humus, kitchen drainage, etc.) to forest land, grassland, agricultural land, plant nursery, etc. They are omnivorous, but most of them derive nutrition from dead organic matter. The beneficial effect of earthworms in increasing soil fertility has been documented since the time of Darwin (1881). Presently, earthworms are not restricted as a basic biology material but is being established as basic material for biotechnology (vermitechnology). Because of the vast number of species available in India and also because of the economic value, understanding of the distribution, abundance and ecological condition of the species has become very important.