Work

Artificial Light at Night Reduces the Surface Activity of Earthworms, Increases the Growth of a Cover Crop and Reduces Water Leaching

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Artificial light at night (ALAN), also known as light pollution, is a growing environmental problem worldwide. However, only a few studies have examined whether soil organisms that search for food at the surface at night can be affected by ALAN. We investigated the effects of ALAN on the above-ground foraging activity of anecic earthworms (Lumbricus terrestris), on the soil water infiltration and on the germination and growth of a cover crop (Phacelia tanacetifolia). In a full-factorial greenhouse experiment, we tested four factors: ALAN (about 5 lx during the night vs. total darkness), earthworms (two specimens vs. none), plant species (Phacelia alone vs. mixed with ragweed Ambrosia artemisiifolia) and sowing depth (surface-sown vs. sown in 5 cm depth). Data were analysed using multifactorial ANOVAs. Earthworms removed 51% less surface litter under ALAN than under dark conditions. ALAN had no effect on Phacelia germination but resulted in increased height growth and biomass production when the seeds were buried. Earthworms reduced Phacelia germination and biomass production. ALAN reduced water leaching through the experimental units, probably due to interactions between the subsurface casts and plant roots. We conclude that ALAN, as emitted from streetlights, can lead to complex ecological effects in ecosystems that merit further investigation.

Source: Land

DOI: 10.3390/land13101698

Authors: Zenia Kavassilas, Marion Mittmannsgruber, Edith Gruber, Johann G. Zaller

Institution: BOKU University

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Light on Environment and Health

Subfield: Global and Planetary Change

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,955