Earthworms as Soil-Health Bioindicators in Mogadishu Greenhouses: A Comparative Study Under Contrasting Managements
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/je.3405Keywords:
: Soil health, Greenhouse, Earthworm, Gap, Non-gap, SomaliaAbstract
Purpose: Greenhouse farming is rapidly expanding in Mogadishu due to water scarcity and increasing demand for vegetables in the market. However, widespread dependence on chemical inputs raises concerns about the long-term health of soils. This study investigated the influence of management systems, Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) versus non-GAP, on plant and soil biological health across 30 greenhouse farms located on the outskirts of Mogadishu and along the Afgoye corridor.
Methodology: A cross-sectional observational design was applied across 30 greenhouses (9 GAP, 21 non-GAP), with 300 plant-rhizosphere units assessed using non-destructive visual indicators. Metrics included Plant Health Score (PHS), leaf color, turgor, surface soil condition, and the Visual Earthworm Abundance Index (V-EAI). Data collection was undertaken from July through September 2025. Data was analyzed using SPSS V.27. Mann. Whitney U tests and Independent Samples t-Tests assessed differences.
Findings: Results revealed significantly higher biological activity and plant vigor in GAP-managed greenhouses (p < 0.05), with visible earthworms mainly present in GAP greenhouses. Despite similar irrigation and bed formation practices, non-GAP systems showed reduced earthworm presence, lower plant health scores, and greater reliance on chemical inputs.
Unique Contribution Theory, Policy and Practice: The study demonstrates that visual earthworm monitoring is a feasible and effective proxy for soil biological health, offering a scalable method for smallholder farmers and extension agents. It also highlights the ecological benefits of GAP management, emphasizing the role of organic inputs and reduced fumigation in promoting soil life. These findings support integrating bioindicators into sustainable greenhouse agriculture in fragile, water-limited environments. Overall, the study advances SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by promoting sustainable greenhouse management and safeguarding soil biodiversity.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ibrahim Jamal Ahmed, Yasin Sheikh Amir Sheikh Ibrahim, Abdullahi Adam Salah, Abdirahman Jamal Ahmed, Hibo Abdinasir Mohamud, Abdisamad Abdidahir Adan, Abdisalan Mohamud Sheikh Isak, Abdulkadir Abdullahi Ibrahim
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