ROLE OF MILLIPEDES (Orthoporous ornatus) IN ENRICHING THE SOIL pH, MACRONUTRIENTS (N, P, K) AND ORGANIC CARBON

Abstract: Aim of the research is to observe the millipede (Orthoporous ornatus) biology and its behavior. We have analyzed the soil samples to find out the soil nutrients level in control and experimental soil with pH, Macronutrients (N, P, K) and Organic Carbon. The current research was done in our college campus. Soil biodiversity reflects the mix of living organisms in the soil. These organisms interact with one another and with plants and small animals forming a web of biological activity. Soil is by far the most biologically diverse part of Earth. Most millipedes are slow-moving detritivores, eating decaying leaves and other dead plant matter. Some eat fungi or suck plant fluids, minority of them are predatory. Most millipedes defend themselves with a variety of chemicals secreted from pores along the body.There is revived focus on the once-neglected millipede for its use in composting and improvement of soil quality. Some of the millipedes are more efficient than the earthworms in this. About 270 species have been identified in India of which, at least 93 are from south India. The millipede shows favorable result in managing nutrients in experimental soil than control soil.

Keywords: Millipede, Orthoporous ornatus, pH, Macronutrients, Organic Carbon, Experimental soil and Control soil.