This study estimates the contribution of earthworms to global agricultural production by analyzing earthworm abundance, soil properties, crop yields, and earthworm-yield responses. Findings indicate that earthworms contribute to approximately 6.5% of global grain production and 2.3% of legume production, totaling over 140 million metric tons annually. This contribution is particularly significant in the global South, reaching 10% of grain production in Sub-Saharan Africa and 8% in Latin America and the Caribbean. The study suggests that supporting earthworm populations through agroecological practices can contribute to sustainable agricultural goals.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Sep 26, 2023
Authors
Steven J. Fonte, Marian Hsieh, Nathaniel D. Mueller
Tags
earthworms
agriculture
global production
sustainability
crop yields
soil properties
agroecological practices
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