MONITORING CHANGES IN GROWTH AND BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS OF STRESS IN EARTHWORMS (EISENIA FETIDA ) EXPOSED TO EFFLUENT FROM INDUSTRY IN BENIN CITY

The complex mixture of pollutants found in industrial effluents can have a significant impact on soil organisms, especially earthworms, which are important for soil health. This study investigates the effects of exposure to industrial effluent on the growth and biochemical stress responses of Eisenia fetida , a well-known bioindicator species. Over the course of 28 days, earthworms were introduced weekly into varying concentrations of the effluent, along with a control group that was not exposed. To measure the effects of the effluent, we tracked important growth parameters, such as weight gain, body length, and reproductive output (cocoon production), at weekly intervals. We also examined biochemical markers of stress, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and total protein content, to assess oxidative stress and metabolic changes. The data were statistically analyzed to identify patterns of growth inhibitions, physiological adaptation, and Biochemical alterations over time. Our research showed that Eisenia fetida was clearly affected by the effluent in a dose-dependent manner. Significant decreases in weight, body length, and cocoon production were observed in earthworms exposed to higher concentrations, suggesting physiological stress and compromised reproductive ability. Biochemical analyses further confirmed these effects, with increased SOD and CAT activities suggesting an oxidative stress response. Meanwhile, the decline in total protein content pointed to metabolic distress and possible protein degradation, especially at higher effluent concentrations. To visually represent these trends, we used line graphs and bar charts to track changes in growth and biochemical markers over time. Additionally, picture documentation documented noteworthy morphological variations between exposed and control groups. These results underscore the substantial environmental concerns caused by industrial wastewater discharge and reinforce the need for tougher waste management policies. The significance of Eisenia fetida as a bioindicator for evaluating soil contamination and ecosystem health is highlighted by this study, which illuminates the harmful impacts of industrial pollution on soil organisms.