The earthworm count method is based on Vidacycle’s approach.
You can download the one-page guide for your project (see Article Attachments, below).
- Locate your chosen sample site: If you have done the test previously, use the GPS mapping feature on Soilmentor to find the same spot.
- Dig: Dig down to 20 cm, to make a hole of approx 20 x 20 x 20cm. Place the dug-up soil in your bucket/tray.
- Search: Break down the soil with your hands, leaving any earthworms you find in your bucket/tray. Put all broken-down soil back in the hole.
- Count worms: Count the number of earthworms and record in the Soilmentor app. Return the earthworms to the soil (unless doing further ID).
Want to go further?
Separate juvenile vs adults and record: Separate earthworms into juveniles vs adults. Juveniles don’t have a reproductive ring (saddle)
Identify earthworm types and record: Leaf litter, Top-soil, deep-burrowing
Video credit: Vidacycle