Four newly documented species of earthworms in a coastal mangrove ecosystem of Guyana, S.A.

Mangrove ecosystems are harsh environments due to their high levels of salinity and constant disturbance from the shifts in tides and actions of waves. An investigative study was conducted to establish the presence or absence of earthworms in this environment and if present, to determine the population dynamic exhibited. Sampling was done along a 120m horizontal transect which yielded 4 new species. Of the 4 species Pontodrilus litoralis showed a high affinity for this high salinity environment which allowed it to access resources unhindered, establishing dominance. Drawida barwelli’s population, however, was suppressed by the presence of Amynthas sp. and Eukerria saltensis, the latter of which has a higher sensitivity to high salinity.The presence of high levels of salinity and sulphur, along with the disturbance of waves, are responsible for the low ecological diversity in this ecosystem. However, the presence of these organisms is still astounding given the intensity of significant soil chemical parameters.