Earthworm
Aristotle described them as the 'intestines of the earth' and they captivated Charles Darwin as Brett Westwood discovers when he explores our relationship with the earthworm.
Whilst we might take them for granted, Aristotle described them as the Intestines of the earth and Charles Darwin recognised their importance when he wrote: βIt may be doubted whether there are many other animals which have played so important a part in the history of the world, as have these lowly organized creaturesβ. As Brett Westwood discovers these βecosystem engineersβ play a vital role in aerating our soils, aiding drainage, clearing up pollutants and if youβre a Gippsland giant and measure up to 3m in length, making themselves heard from below ground! They have also wormed their way into our literature, charmed our culture and burrowed into our language. Producer: Sarah Blunt.
Podcast
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Natural Histories
Stories of natureβs impact on human culture and society through history.