Earthworms in Forest Soils.

Of Jenny’s pedogenic factors, the biotic component is arguably the most complex and interactive.  Paradoxically, it is the most often examined (if not directly), perhaps in light of the broad range of effects exhibited by biological factors and relevance across many disciplines.  For my dissertation, I have studied the interaction between invasive earthworms and soils supporting Northern Hardwood Forests in Vermont.   I have found this interaction to result in significant changes in soil respiration, plant available nutrients, structure and water dynamics as compared to uninvaded soils.  I will summarize my results relevant to pedogenesis in hopes of adding to this ever expanding topic.