Earthworms in the Netherlands (number of Taxa)

Earthworms belong to the giants of soil life, the so-called macrofauna. About 25 species are known in the Netherlands, but most of them are rarely observed. Some species are very common. Earthworms are classified into three groups, based on their choice of food, behavior and appearance. For example, there are the commuters, who make deep vertical corridors and bring plant remains far into the soil. They increase the organic matter content, improve soil fertility and strengthen the moisture-regulating capacity. In addition, there are the earthworms that live just below the surface and the species that are deeper in the soil. The first group composts plant material and releases a lot of nitrogen, phosphate and potassium. The latter group promotes aeration and stimulates microbial activity in the soil. Earthworms are sensitive to pollution and tillage, such as plowing and fertilizer injection. Due to their behavior and properties, earthworms play an important role in the structure formation of the soil. Most earthworm species are found on dairy farms on clay soils. Earthworms are crucial for: • nutrient balance • soil structure • breakdown and storage of organic matter • storage and release of water • habitat and biodiversity