Worm's Eye View

In the UK, data shows that flying insects are showing dramatic population crashes. There is, however, no comparable long-term monitoring of soil invertebrates. Earthworms are crucial soil invertebrates, with powerful impacts on soil health (this was another thing recognised by Charles Darwin in his studies). Earthworms help to break down organic matter and aerate soils. These invertebrates are also important food items for a variety of fish, amphibians, birds and mammals. Extrapolation of some relatively small UK studies, suggest that Earthworms have declined by between 33 and 41% over the last quarter of a century (https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/dec/19/earthworms-may-have-declined-by-a-third-in-uk-study-reveals). This potential decline needs urgent confirmation. If true, it's very bad news for UK agriculture, horticulture and animal diversity.