Earthworms could have the potential to replace some high-cost mineral/synthetic fertilizers, new research suggests.
Researchers at University College Dublin have unearth fresh insight into the soil dweller's importance for crops taking up nutrients.
The findings suggest a shortcut in the soil nitrogen cycle not previously recognized in which earthworms, when they are active, rapidly enrich soil and plants through nitrogen excreted in their mucus.
The role of soil animals such as earthworms in nutrient cycling is traditionally seen as beneficial but indirect, slow and cumulative.
Earthworms have the potential to replace use of synthetic fertilisers
Researchers at University College Dublin have unearth fresh insight into the soil dweller's importance for crops taking up nutrients.
The findings suggest a shortcut in the soil nitrogen cycle not previously recognized in which earthworms, when they are active, rapidly enrich soil and plants through nitrogen excreted in their mucus.
The role of soil animals such as earthworms in nutrient cycling is traditionally seen as beneficial but indirect, slow and cumulative.
Earthworms have the potential to replace use of synthetic fertilisers