• Aishwarya Sharma
• Shailja Kumari

Microplastic pollution has become a pervasive environmental issue, with its detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health garnering increasing attention. This research delves into the potential of earthworm species as a natural solution for mitigating microplastic pollution. The epigeic species Perionyx excavatus, commonly referred to as the blue worm, were investigated. The study revealed that these earthworms could ingest LDPE microplastics present in soil, leading to their degradation within a relatively short span of 20 25 days, while exhibiting a remarkable survival rate of 0%. Structural and morphological changes in the microplastics were detected through SEM images, accompanied by approximately 40% weight loss. Moreover, alterations in functional groups were observed via FTIR analysis. Despite their significant potential, the interaction of earthworm species with microplastics in soil ecosystems has been underexplored, prompting further investigation into their capacity to ingest, degrade, and redistribute microplastics within these environments.

Bioremediation, Earthworm, Microplastic, Pollution

"Nature’s Cleanup Crew: Exploring the contribution of Perionyx excavatus species for microplastic remediation", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 5, page no.f394-f400, May-2024, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2405544.pdf

"Nature’s Cleanup Crew: Exploring the contribution of Perionyx excavatus species for microplastic remediation", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.11, Issue 5, page no. ppf394-f400, May-2024, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2405544.pdf