Mass migration of blue earthworms in Meghalaya underlines sustainable land-use

Context

Scientists of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have for the first time prepared a report on the two-way mass migration of Blue earthworm in the district’s Mawlyngot area, Meghalya.

What is Blue Earthworm?

• Blue earthworm (Perionyxmacintoshi) is a species of migratory worms, 'blue worms'.
• Habitat: It was discovered in Meghalaya, which is considered as a biodiversity hotspot. The species was found at Nohron and villages in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya.
• Migration: These worms migrate to the uplands in the spring and move back to the warmer, lower altitudes beforewinter sets in.

Key-findings of the Report

• Blue earthworm plays an important role in enhancing the fertility of soil. It helped farmers to shift to ecologically sustainable organic farming.
• Impacts on migration: Unsustainable land-use practices have drastically reduced the population of earthworms to a few “lethargic wrigglers”.
• Factors impacting their migration: Developmental activities, predation, erratic weather patterns and climate change pose risks to successful migrations of earthworms