Matojen

Matojen, in Finnish, refers to worms, especially earthworms. They are a group of segmented invertebrates within the phylum Annelida and class Clitellata. The most familiar are earthworms of the family Lumbricidae, such as Lumbricus terrestris. They have elongated cylindrical bodies composed of many segments, with small bristles called setae on each segment. They lack legs and use a hydrostatic skeleton to move. They respire through moist skin and require damp environments to avoid desiccation.

Ecology and role: Earthworms live in soil and leaf litter, feeding on decomposing organic matter. They digest this material with gut microbes and excrete castings rich in nutrients. Through their burrowing, they aerate and mix the soil, enhance drainage, and promote microbial activity. Their activities accelerate nutrient cycling and improve soil structure, benefiting plant growth.

Life cycle and reproduction: Most mato are hermaphroditic and can fertilize each other. They produce cocoons in which embryos develop, giving rise to juvenile worms after a period of development. Lifespan varies by species and conditions.

Distribution and diversity: Thousands of species occur worldwide, with a few common genera in temperate regions. Lumbricus terrestris is a well-known representative in many soils. Some species have become important as decomposers in managed ecosystems, such as vermicomposting.

Human uses and considerations: Vermicomposting uses small red worms like Eisenia fetida to convert kitchen waste into nutrient-rich compost. Earthworms also serve as fishing bait. Protecting soil structure and moisture is important for their populations, while heavy pesticide use and soil compaction can harm them.