Earthworm effects on microbial and enzyme activities in soil

Earthworms have well-documented beneficial influences on plant growth and soil processes. The earthworm's capacity to decomposition of organic matter has been associated with the microbial communities residing in their digestive tracts or constructed structures, which serve as hotspots for microbial and enzymatic activities. Nevertheless, it is still unknown how the structure of soil microbial communities is altered by earthworms and how these alternations impact microbial functions in soil. Do earthworms feed on microorganisms and thereby lower microbial abundance and activity, or do they choose and promote certain microbial associations? The purpose of this chapter is to furnish a comprehensive overview of the effects of earthworms on the structure and functions of soil microbial communities. Additionally, this chapter aims to elucidate the impact of earthworm-induced shifts in the microbiota on soil functions, especially those that occur in the rhizosphere and are associated with plant health and growth. Finally, a framework for earthworm, microbial, and enzyme activity connections will be provided, along with recommendations for further research. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024. All rights reserved.