Terrestrial enchytraeids.
Abstract
Enchytraeidae (Annelida, Oligochaeta) or potworms are distributed worldwide, representing an essential component of the food web in most soils. They also inhabit permafrost soils in the Arctic and Antarctic, and occur in the Austrian Alps up to altitudes of more than 2700 m. The species composition of enchytraeids is typical of distinct sites and can be applied in bioindication. However, chemical and physical soil parameters alone cannot sufficiently explain the occurrence of a certain species in an area. Additional knowledge about the eco-physiological abilities of such worms are necessary. Enchytraeids can survive frost in the soil for a long period of time. Information about their freezing resistance, however, is scarce. The aim of this project is to obtain data about these eco-physiological problems by means of laboratory experiments and biochemical assays with regard to the environmental conditions and life cycles of selected enchytraeid species.
Project staff
Erhard Christian
Ao.Univ.-Prof.i.R. Dr. Erhard Christian
erhard.christian@boku.ac.at
Tel: +43 1 47654-83314
Project Leader
10.10.1995 - 09.10.1997
BOKU partners
External partners
Eötvös Loránd University, Department of Systematic Zoology and Ecology
Dr. K. Dózsa-Farkas
partner