The impact of cow dung augmentation on soil restoration and bio-accumulation of metals (Lead and Cadmium) in Pheretima posthuma (Annelida: Clitellata)

Abstract

To investigate the role of cow dung in soil reclamation and bio assimilation along with bio accumulation of heavy metals in earthworm (P. posthuma) (N=900) earthworms were used and treatment groups of CD-soil mixture of different proportion of cow dung were designed. Nonlethal doses of lead acetate and cadmium chloride were added in treatment groups. Mature P. posthuma were released in each experimental pot maintaining the favorable conditions. The pH, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, exchangeable cations, and heavy metal level of each mixture was evaluated. The results indicated that bio-assimilation of Pb and Cd by P. posthuma were significantly (P ˂ 0.01) higher in different soil-CD treatments compared to control. Highest bio-assimilation of both metals was observed in T1 of both groups (Pb = 563.8 mg/kg and Cd = 42.95 mg/kg). The contents of both metals were significantly (P ˂ 0.05) lowered in casting. The nutrient concentration in the final castings of all soil-CD treatments were also equally transformed from less or insoluble to more soluble and available for plants, except for carbon level which increased with CD proportion. It is concluded that cow dung as organic matter has a positive effect on soil reclamation and bio-assimilation of metals by P. posthuma.

Medicinal Perspective of Antibacterial Bioactive Agents in Earthworms (Clitellata, Annelida): A Comprehensive Review

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development of the soil structure 2) . They enhance the soil structure by improving macro-porosity, which exerting their impact on water dynamics, aeration, and decomposition of inorganic and organic materials 3,4) .Various components of earthworms have been employed as therapeutic drugs against different infectious illnesses since 1340 AD 5) . The defensive system of earthworm lacks antibodies in their blood circulatory system but their body extracts and coelomic fluid comprise of different bioactive agents (i.e.

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“…development of the soil structure 2) . They enhance the soil structure by improving macro-porosity, which exerting their impact on water dynamics, aeration, and decomposition of inorganic and organic materials 3,4) .…”