Catalase Enzyme and its Kinetic Parameters in Earthworm L. terrestris Casts and Surrounding Soil

Abstract

Catalase enzyme and its kinetic parameters (V_max, K_m and V_max/K_m) were detennined in order to assess adding earthworm L terrestris to the soil. As a result, it has been determined that there is a low level of catalase activities, which is an important criterion in evaluation of aerobic micro-organisms, despite the fact that earthworm casts contain higher levels of organic C and nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and Mn) in comparison with surrounding soil and the control (the soil in which the earthworms are not included). It was also determined that the highest levels of both catalase activities and kinetic parameters occur in surrounding soil.