ABSTRACT:We evaluated earthworm abundance and biomass in plantations of different poplar species and clones as well as the effect of some soil chemical and physical properties on them. (P. caspica), as endemic and endangered poplar species, were selected in this study. Earthworm abundance and biomass, soil texture, bulk and particle density (BD, PD), pH, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P) and exchangeable potassium (K) were evaluated. The results showed that the earthworm abundance and biomass, OC, P and N in P. d. 63/51 were higher than in the other poplar species and clones. The correlation coefficients showed a positive correlation of OC, N and a negative correlation of pH, clay, BD and P with earthworm biomass. Based on the results, compared to the other species and clones P. d. 63/51 creates favourable conditions to produce more organic matter and higher abundance and biomass of earthworms, hence it could be beneficial for maintaining the soil quality status for successive plantings.
Destructive effects of heavy metals on the environment and the microorganisms have been reported. Heavy metals such as Cu break through different ways into agricultural land and the environment. In order to study effects of soil contamination concentrations, 0, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80 mg Cu concentration per kg soil have been tested on the growth of earthworm species Eisenia fetida. The results showed that average concentrations of Cu up to 60 mg/kg soil increased and stimulated earthworm growth parameters. But higher concentrations 80 mg/kg soil have significant negative effects on the mean weight, survivability and number of Cocoon produced. Amount of Cu in earthworm organs was a linear function of the Cu concentration in its living environment.
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