Earthworm (Pontoscolex corethrurus) and organic matter effects on the reclamation of an eroded oxisol

The effects of organic matter (OM) and/or Pontoscolex corethrurus (EW) inoc ulation on the reclamation of an artificially eroded oxisol were evaluated during four successive cropping seasons(1995-1997). Crop yield, as well as chemical, biological, and physical soil properties were evaluated. Results indicated that OM improved soil physical properties and restored crop produ ctivity to levels reported as average for high input agricultural systems. EW inoculation, in either, the presence or absence of OM, resulted in soil compaction and had no effect in increasing soil fertility or crop yield. Ov erall, EW inoculation and/or OM amendments did not affect soil respiration, net ammonification acid net nitrification rates. Our data suggest that und er high input of OM and nutrients P. corethrurus is nut beneficial on the r eclamation of an eroded oxisol.