Assessing the Efficacy of Vermiremediation in Mitigating Heavy Metal Contamination in Soil Systems

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination of soil presents significant environmental and human health concerns worldwide. In response, alternative remediation strategies such as vermiremediation have gained attention for their eco-friendly approach. Earthworms, ubiquitous in soil ecosystems, play pivotal roles in soil health maintenance through organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and soil aeration. Additionally, earthworms possess inherent mechanisms for coping with heavy metal exposure, making them natural candidates for remediation efforts. Their ability to bioaccumulate, transform, and immobilize heavy metals underscores their potential in mitigating soil pollution. Through controlled laboratory experiments and field studies, the effectiveness of vermiremediation utilizing earthworms, particularly species like Eisenia fetida, has been demonstrated in reducing heavy metal concentrations in contaminated soil. This review provides insights into the pivotal role of earthworms in soil ecosystems. It highlights their promising potential in remediating toxic heavy metal pollution, contributing to sustainable soil management practices.