Abstract.
The behaviour of earthworms belonging to two different species and ecological types (A porrectodea nocturna and A llolobophora chlorotica) was studied using two-dimensional (2D) terraria. Two experiments were set up to gain insight into the nature of interactions between these earthworms. Firstly, the evolution of the burrow systems was analysed with the density of the earthworms varying from one to five individuals. Secondly, a burrow system was first established by using one earthworm which was then removed before the introduction of a second earthworm. This second earthworm therefore encountered a burrow system created either by a conspecific earthworm or by an earthworm of the other species. These experiments showed that: (1) intra- and interspecific interactions occur between earthworms, (2) these interactions are dependent on the physical presence of the earthworms, and (3) spatial avoidance can occur (A. chlorotica avoiding burrows created by A. nocturna). The results suggest that earthworm burrow systems are "individual structures", rarely used by other earthworms when inhabited. When abandoned, the burrows may be recolonised depending on the ecological type of the earthworm under consideration.
Article PDF
Similar content being viewed by others
Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Electronic Publication
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Capowiez, Y., Belzunces, L. Dynamic study of the burrowing behaviour of Aporrectodea nocturna and Allolobophora chlorotica: interactions between earthworms and spatial avoidance of burrows. Biol Fertil Soils 33, 310–316 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1007/s003740000327
Received:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s003740000327