Most people know that earthworms are good for the soil, and we’re pleased to find them in the garden even if they are a bit squirmy. But did you know that Charles Darwin doubted that many other animals have played so important a part in the history of the world than earthworms?
Dr Kevin Butt is a Reader in Ecology at the University of Central Lancashire (based in Preston). He has studied earthworms for around 35 years. His research interest is soil ecology with a focus on earthworms and the Ecosystem Services that they provide for us. Field research has taken Kevin to locations across the UK, Europe, Scandinavia and the USA.
Click play on the video to hear about some of this research and explore the fascinating world of earthworms!
… and here below is the video mentioned by Dr Butt showing an earthworm gathering vegetation, and so improving the soil.
Try these links for even more info on earthworms!
The Earthworm Society of Britain – digging into the world of earthworms
The Earthworm Research Group, UCLAN