16 June 2008

How to sample earthworms? 

Earthworm field tests are required as the last step in the TIER approach to assess the effects of pesticides on earthworms. Earthworm numbers between replicates of one sampling can vary considerably due to the earthworm distribution in the field. All extraction methods have a different efficiency and collect a different spectrum of earthworms therefore, influencing the conclusions that can be drawn from dataset. Independent of the method used earthworm samplings are also the most time consuming part in such studies. 
Three sampling methods (formalin extraction, hand-sorting and combined hand-sorting with formalin extraction) have been compared in three different soil types throughout the season. Furthermore, two differently sized sampling areas (50 cm x 50 cm and 25 cm x 25 cm) were evaluated. 
The different extraction methods are presented and specific advantages and trade-offs are discussed in 2 posters presented at the SETAC meetings in 2007 and 2008. 

For detailed information please contact: Olaf Klein (olaf.klein@eurofins-gab.com)

Download of the SETAC posters:

Poster 2007

Poster 2008

More pictures:

Archive:

Earthworms in the newspaper

Where are the test animals?

Christmas Party

Christmas Corral?

We make the impossible possible!

Digging for Oil?

Colourful honey bees in spring

Miniaturisation at GAB

A camel in the snow - earthworms?

Wintertime not for our bees!

Cherries at Winter!

Slugs are coming!

Honey bee in-vitro larvae test