IMPACT OF TRIAZOPHOS, CHEMICAL USED IN SOYBEAN CROP, ON THE GROWTH AND REPRODUCTION OF EISENIA FETIDA

Earthworms are crucial for maintaining soil quality and supporting agricultural practices. Soil conditions, such as nutrients, toxicants, moisture, fertilizers, and pesticides, can impact earthworm populations, growth, and reproduction. Of particular concern is the potential negative effects of pesticides on higher ecological levels. This study aims to evaluate the toxicity of Triazophos, a commonly used insecticide during Soybean cultivation, on the earthworm species Eisenia fetida in Kota, Rajasthan, India. In this experiment, five sets of 10 earthworms were exposed to concentrations of Triazophos ranging from 0.158 to 15.8 mg/kg dry weight, while one set served as the control. The growth of earthworms was monitored after four weeks, and the number of juveniles was counted after eight weeks. The results showed that the growth rate and reproduction of Eisenia fetida were significantly reduced by exposure to Triazophos. These findings highlight the potential ecological risks associated with the use of Triazophos in agricultural settings.