Earthworm Ecology

This informative book is the most comprehensive work on earthworm ecology currently available. It provides important insights into the critical balance between environment and earthworm impact. Until now, little has been done to really study the worldwide impact of the 8,000 species of earthworms. This highly illustrated publication makes a significant contribution to the existing literature. This expansive study presents the important, and often overlooked, impact earthworms have on the environment. -- Earthworm biogeography, diversity, taxonomy, and systematics -- Use of earthworms in waste management and environmental monitoring -- Impact of climate, soil properties, predation, disease and parasitism, and competition upon earthworm ecology -- Feeding behavior, food preferences, dietary requirements, and interaction between earthworms and microbial communities -- Ecotoxicological evaluation and risk assessment