SoilRise - Monitoring of soil fauna by Citzen Science

SoilRise aims to uncover the hidden life beneath our feet, focusing on soil biodiversity, in particular the crucial role of earthworms. Earthworms are essential for soil quality and the balance of ecosystems, but are often neglected in environmental protection measures. SoilRise uses citizen science and a mentor-based approach to engage students, researchers and the public in the mission to understand and protect earthworm communities across Europe. SoilRise aims to increase data availability on earthworm biodiversity in Europe and promote awareness of soil life and its demands through community engagement. In addition, habitat requirements and threats are to be uncovered, and endangered species identified. Modern DNA barcoding methods help explore the diversity of earthworms in Europe. Given the decline in biodiversity and climate change, SoilRise is an important project for habitat protection. The project can contribute to preserving diversity in the soil and hopefully inspire a new generation of environmentalists to advocate for its conservation. By revealing the hidden world of soil organisms, SoilRise contributes to the health of our soils and has a positive impact on environmental protection.