POPULATION DYNAMICS OF EARTHWORM IN RELATION TO SOIL PHYSICO- CHEMICAL PARAMETERS FROM PANDHARPUR TEHSIL, DIST-SOLAPUR (MS)

The present study investigates the population dynamics of earthworms in relation to key soil physico-chemical parameters across various locations in Pandharpur Tehsil, District Solapur, Maharashtra. Earthworms, being crucial indicators of soil health and fertility, were sampled from multiple agricultural and non-agricultural sites over a seasonal cycle. Simultaneously, soil samples were analyzed for parameters including pH, moisture content, temperature, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and texture. The study revealed significant correlations between earthworm abundance and certain soil properties, particularly organic carbon content and moisture levels. Earthworm populations were observed to fluctuate seasonally, with peak densities occurring during the monsoon season. Species diversity and richness varied across habitats, reflecting the influence of local soil conditions and land use practices.These findings underscore the ecological significance of earthworms and their sensitivity to environmental changes, emphasizing their potential as bioindicators in sustainable soil management strategies. The data also provide a valuable baseline for future ecological and agricultural planning in the region of Pandharpur.