EFFECTS OF HERBICIDES ON GROWTH AND REPRODUCTION OF THE EARTHWORMS

ABSTRACT Scientific literature discussing the impact of herbicides on growth and reproduction is reviewed. Herbicides have become most used substance to control weeds. The herbicides are used in large amount by the farmers in the field without examining the side effects of these herbicides on soil organisms. The herbicides residues may create adverse effects on the environment by leaching to ground water and give rise to water pollution. It is believed that where herbicides are used to control weeds, they are considered harmful to soil organisms by increase mortality and reduce reproduction of organisms. Earthworm is known as farmer’s friend because they improve the quality of soil. The effect of herbicides on earthworm depends on type and concentration of herbicide. This review will outline the state of knowledge about the harmful effects of herbicides to soil biotic communit