An analysis of earthworm distribution within Brockholes Wetland Nature Reserve

Abstract

A study of earthworm species and distribution was carried out at Brockholes wetland
nature reserve in order to investigate the effects the previous land use of the site has
had on the earthworm population, looking at how measures taken by the National
Trust have helped rejuvenate invertebrate numbers within some areas of the site.
It was found that application of top soil within a re-profiled wetland area of the site
has had positive effects on earthworm numbers in comparison to an area that has
been re-profiled with no top soil application within which no earthworm biomass was
found.
The study concluded that the methods being used by the National Trust were
suitable to be applied to other areas within the reserve. This would greatly accelerate
the population growth of earthworms within the soil, helping reach the overall goals
of the nature reserve by creating a valuable source of education and enrichment for
the local community and wildlife in the near future.