Effects of microscale particles in red mud amended artificial soils on bioaccumulation of elements in E. fetida

• Red mud contains large amounts of microscale particles. Microscale particles strongly adhere to the earthworm epidermis. E. fetida dermal pores may be blocked by Micro-particles impair earthworms’ respiration and nutrients uptake. Amount RM < 1 ?m should not > 20 % if used for soil amendment. (RM) quantities high concentrations potentially toxic elements. In this research, we have two types similar chemical properties but containing different micro-particles, test whether their size plays a role in uptake elements Eisenia . Earthworms were exposed seven days artificial soils (prepared laboratory following protocol) amended with increasing RM. Mortality 86 occurred when earthworms 46 below ?m. Surprisingly, tissue analyses shown decreased metals instead expected effect. SEM analysis revealed that micro-particles epidermis putting them under stress. clog minute 90 nm–735 nm diameter, which depends on earthworm’s body is contracted or stretched. Strong adhesion blockage microsize prevented normal absorption through epithelium resulting decrease most measured metals, especially essential potassium, calcium iron, followed lethal outcomes.