Final answer:
Earthworms contribute to agriculture by improving soil fertility and structure, aiding nutrient cycling, and enhancing plant growth through their feeding and burrowing activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Earthworms play a significant role in agriculture by enhancing soil structure, fertility, and nutrient cycling. As deposit feeders, they consume soil, thereby ingesting decomposing organic matter. Their excrement, known as worm casts, is highly nutritious for plants.
The tunneling action of earthworms also improves soil aeration and drainage. By breaking down organic matter into humus, earthworms facilitate the creation of rich, fertile soil ideal for plant growth. Their activities aid in mixing and aerating the soil, which is crucial for maintaining healthy soil ecosystems and, consequently, productive agricultural systems.