ISSN:
1432-0789
Keywords:
Denitrification
;
N2O
;
Earthworm casts
;
Respiration
;
Lumbricus terrestris
;
Medicago sativa
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
,
Geosciences
,
Agriculture, Forestry, Horticulture, Fishery, Domestic Science, Nutrition
Notes:
Summary Earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris L.) were cultured in the laboratory and fed on lucerne (Medicago sativa L.). Denitrification rates in the surface casts and the surrounding soil were quantified using C2H2-inhibition of nitrous oxide reductase. The investigation also included determination of the N2O-formation by nitrification as well as CO2-formation as a measure of respiration. The denitrification rates of wet earthworm casts were found to be significantly higher than those occurring in wet samples from the soil. The low N2O-formation observed seemed to be due to denitrification. Respiration was higher in casts, indicating higher oxygen demand which resulted in more anaerobic conditions. The energy supply was probably better in casts compared with the surrounding soil.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00257593
