Molecular identification of composting earthworms using DNA barcoding
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22201/ib.20078706e.2026.97.5761Keywords:
Organic waste, Taxonomy, Epigean speciesAbstract
Composting earthworms play a key role in the decomposition of organic matter. Epigeic species of the genus Eisenia are widely used both in vermicomposting and as bioindicators in toxicological studies. However, accurate taxonomic identification of these species remains challenging due to their high morphological similarity, which affects the efficiency and function of vermicomposting processes. In this study, the earthworm species present in 5 vermicomposting facilities located in Veracruz and Quintana Roo, México, were identified through molecular analyses of the mitochondrial COI gene. The results revealed the presence of 2 species: Eisenia andrei and Perionyx excavatus, ruling out Eisenia fetida, which had previously been assumed by facility operators. Genetic distances between the identified specimens were below 1.3%, while divergences from E. fetida exceeded 16%, supporting clear species delimitation. Our results highlight the need to integrate molecular methods into earthworm identification for their use in toxicological studies and to strengthen the sustainable management of organic waste.
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