Seasonal changes in abundance of earthworms (Annelida:Lumbricidae and Acanthodrilidae) in soils used for cereal and lucerne production in South Australia

Abstract

The abundances of the introduced earthworms, Aporrectodea rosea, A. trapezoides, Microscolex dubius and M. phosphoreus were monitored monthly in the top 30 cm of soil at three farms used for cereal and lucerne production in South Australia. The farms had approximately 500 mm annual rainfall. Total earthworm densities of up to 303 m-2 were recorded, with the Aporrectodea spp. far more abundant than the Microscolex spp. Highest numbers were found in winter and early spring, when the soils were wettest (water suction potential < approx. 150 kPa) and the majority of worms were present in the top 10 cm of soil. During the drier months of the year, most worms were found below 10 cm depth. Adults with mature clitella were restricted to winter and spring. Juveniles and adults (with regressed clitella) of Aporrectodea spp. survived summer.