Population and diversity of earthworms in various vegetation types at the experimental garden of the Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara Deli Serdang
Keywords:
Earthworm diversity, Vegetation, Survey method, Hand sortingAbstract
Earthworm diversity across different habitats serves as a key indicator of soil ecosystem health. Earthworms thrive only in environments that meet their specific needs, with vegetation being a crucial factor influencing their distribution. The diversity of plant species in an area can have a direct impact on earthworm biodiversity. This study aims to explore the effect of different vegetation types on earthworm diversity and its correlation with soil fertility at the experimental farm of Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Utara. The research was conducted from December 2023 to March 2024. The equipment used included a 25 x 25 x 30 cm quadrat frame, hoe, plastic bags, containers, tweezers, sample bottles, measuring tape, magnifying glass, microscope, lux meter, thermometer, hygrometer, soil tester, and coring tool. Materials used were 4% formalin, 70% alcohol, and distilled water. The survey method, with purposive sampling techniques, was employed, with predetermined sampling points. Earthworms were counted using the hand-sorting method, and identification was conducted up to the genus level using reference literature: Beddard (1912), Blakemore (2002), James and Wood (1993), Hong and James (2010), and Shen and Yeo (2005). Data were analyzed using scatter plots to examine distribution patterns, and correlation tests were performed to assess the relationship between earthworm diversity and soil chemical properties. The results showed that earthworm diversity in banana, sugarcane, and grass vegetation was categorized as low (H' < 1). An independent sample t-test revealed significant differences in earthworm diversity between banana and sugarcane vegetation compared to grass. Correlation tests indicated no significant relationship between diversity indices and soil moisture content, organic carbon, or pH levels.
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