Earthworms and Vermicomposting

Vermicomposting, a sustainable waste management and soil enrichment technique, relies on the remarkable abilities of earthworms. Earthworms, believed to have originated around 600 million years ago, are found worldwide, with distribution patterns influenced by environmental factors. Their adaptation from marine ancestors to terrestrial life, marked by efficient burrowing and soil processing, has made them key contributors to ecosystems. This chapter highlights the essential role of earthworms in vermicomposting and their diverse global presence, emphasizing their distribution and evolution.