Which ecological type describes earthworms that function as deep-burrowing cast producers?
Answer
Anecic
Earthworms play specialized roles in soil ecology, and scientific classification recognizes different habits based on where they live and feed. The term 'anecic' specifically describes those earthworms that are deep-burrowing. These organisms create permanent vertical burrows that extend far beneath the topsoil. Their primary ecological function involves moving large amounts of organic matter from the surface down into these deep tunnels, where they process it and deposit nutrient-rich soil casts deep within the profile. This contrasts with epigeic worms, which are surface-dwelling composters, and endogeic worms, which inhabit and process the topsoil layers.
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