Energy assessment of phytodestruction activity of earthworms and woodlice

The article provides data related to the participation of earthworms ( Lumbricidae, genus Nicodrilus ) and woodlice ( Isopoda , genus Armadillidium ) in the destruction of plant litter (wormwood, alfalfa, licorice, grapes) on meadow-gray soil. Decomposition experiments were carried out both on the natural (virgin) cenosis and on the agrocenoses of the above-mentioned plants. The results obtained showed that woodlice are active destructors of virgin vegetation, while earthworms are of significant importance in agrocenoses. The experimental data were evaluated energetically, as a result of which a selective ratio of invertebrates to various energy (forage) resources was revealed.