The effects of mineral fertilzers on growth and reproduction of Eisenia Fetida

Abstract

Soil organisms were widely used as index of biological quality of soil. Worms are an important component of soil system, especially due to their effect on soil structure and functions. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of mineral fertilizers as ammonium nitrate and urea on earthworm Eisenia fetida growth and reproduction. To achieve this, experiment was conducted using OECD artificial soil spiked with NH4NO3 (0, 1, 2, 3 g NH4NO3 kg-1) and CO(NH2)2 (0, 1, 2, 3 g CO(NH2)2 kg-1). Growth was assessed at day 14 and 28, cocoon production - at day 56. Weight of worms was significantly affected by both fertilizers, analysis showed that NH4NO3 and also CO(NH2)2 concentrations have statistically significant influence on weight of worms (p < 0,05). The cocoon production was significantly affected by increased CO(NH2)2 substance but no significantly affected by increased NH4NO3. It is concluded that mineral fertilizers positively effects lifecycle of earthworms growth and reproduction.