Studies on the Microfauna of Blanket Bog with Particular Reference to Enchytraeidae

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Abstract
Feeding and choice experiments were conducted in the laboratory with an enchytraeid worm C. sphagnetorum (Vejd.), dominant in a Pennine moorland peat soil. A number of foods occurring on a blanket bog were tested, and samples of younger or older decomposing litters of Rubus chamaemorus L., Eriophorum vaginatum L. and Calluna vulgaris (L.) Hull provided good food or were chosen in a choice experiment. Particulate material, some containing microorganisms, was also tested, but no evidence was obtained for the use of separated microorganisms or detritus as a sole source of food or as an essential requirement. Worms frequently died on culture material of both bacteria and fungi. The use of microbial material within decomposing litter cannot be ruled out. A toxic effect of irradiated litter was encountered, but worms grew on irradiated, i.e., sterile litter, which was treated with enzymes. The food selected from decomposing litter had a C:N ratio of 16-29. The best growth was shown on foods with a higher N and lower tannin and crude-fiber content. The gut of worms contained cellulosic and humified plant materials and disintegrated humus. The proportion of plant material including cellulosic decreased down the gut, and the cells appeared crushed and sponge-like in the feces. Under field conditions the older, decomposing litter of Calluna and Eriophorum appear to be the main foods, and the quantity present is sufficient to maintain the population. The worm is considered as a primary decomposer.