Submitted by Martin Beach on
Native California Earthworm species are largly unstudied. We have identified several species, which seem to be split in a North South divide. Those of the Argilophilus genera are more populous in Northern California. We know their populations are decreasing rapidly decreasing, following the path of many indigenous earthworm species after colonization. Soil disturbance and invasive earthworm competition are thought to be the main causes of this decline. Little research has been conducted on their ecology, biology, soil interactions, and characteristics.
My goal with this survey is to identify Argilophilus species' soil preferences. This knowledge will provide us with greater insight into the human soil disturbance and earthworm habitat loss. I will be surveying areas with different soil characteristics and identifying the species of earthworms that inhabit them. Analyzing the characteristics of soils with more dense populations of native earthworms may reveal Argilophilus's preferences for soil order, pH, moisture levels, and organic material. I am requesting funding primarily for transportation in order to acheive broad coverage of potential habitats.
A note on my mentor: UC Berkeley does not have a resident worm specialist, and so I have found mentorship at several other universities. My Berkeley faculty support will be Dr. Whendee Silver. Unfortunately, she is on vacation and, while she agreed many months ago, I am hesitant to put her name on this form until I can speak with her again. If for some reason there is any issue, Dr. Ignacio Chapela can support me. I hope to have this settled by August 1st and I apologize for any difficulty that may impose upon this process.