Local Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Values of Earthworms for Biodiversity Conservation in Mt. Guimba, Loboc, Bohol, Philippines

Abstract

Earthworms are keystone species that indicate soil fertility; however, their kinds are threatened by unsustainable practices. This study assessed the species composition, local knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) on values of earthworms potential for conservation, particularly from relatively disturbed sites in Barangays Oy and Jimiian within Mt. Guimba, Loboc, Bohol. Using an explanatory sequential research design, the study integrated ecology of earthworms and qualitative inquiry to develop a broader understanding of earthworm biodiversity and community perspectives. Published and unpublished studies were collected for content analysis to determine species’ ecology. Key Informant Interviews comprising of eight sectors were purposively selected using modified questionnaire tailored to the communities and ecosystem to assess KAP until data saturation was achieved. Findings revealed a diverse composition (63 species, 8 genera, 3 families) of earthworms in the Philippines and common in Mt. Guimba were Pheretima, Polypheretima, and Pontoscolex corethrurus. Species of Pheretima were abundant and distributed across islands especially in karst and deep forest habitats, however few manifestations in forest-edge. Polypheretima is considered both as a native and exotic while Pontoscolex corethrurus is invasive. Local knowledge on earthworms was limited to soil fertility and agricultural productivity (100%), with minimal awareness of their broader ecological functions (18.75%-21.88%). However, key informants have negative attitudes such as fear and disgust (50%) that remain evident in the community. Existing practices such as vermicomposting, tree planting, and environmental initiatives demonstrate the potential for community-based biodiversity conservation and sustainable management strategies in Mt. Guimba.