【Koyomi】 May 11, 2024

72 Kou｜Mimizuidzuru
七十二侯｜蚯蚓出（みみずいづる）

As spring progresses into mid-May, an interesting phenomenon occurs beneath our feet: This period marks a significant transition in the natural world, highlighting the vital role these creatures play in the ecosystem.

5月中旬になると、足元で興味深い現象が起こります。この時期は自然界における重要な移行期であり、これらの生き物が生態系で果たす重要な役割が浮き彫りになります。

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The Awakening of the Soil: Earthworms at Work

The annual emergence of earthworms, known in Japan as "Mimizuidzuru," occurs around May 11th to 15th. As these creatures awaken from hibernation, their unique ability to detect light and move towards darkness plays a crucial role. This trait, suggested by their Japanese name "Mimizu" which implies "cannot see," is essential as they navigate through the soil, creating pathways vital for air and water circulation, thus aiding plant growth.

土の目覚め：活動するミミズ

蚯蚓出（みみずいづる）は毎年5月11日〜15日頃です。この頃からミミズは冬眠から目覚めます。目がないが光を感知し、暗がりに進むミミズ。この性質は、「目見えず」から転じた「みみず」という名前に由来しています。土を進む彼らが作る通路は、空気と水の動きにとって不可欠で、植物の成長を助けます。

Natural Aeration and Irrigation: Earthworm Movements

Earthworms significantly enhance soil aeration and water permeability by moving around within it. Their constant activity ensures that oxygen is well-distributed throughout the soil, creating ideal conditions for root development and overall plant health. Often referred to as "nature's plough," earthworms provide a crucial service by maintaining the soil structure without the need for human intervention.

自然の通気と灌漑：ミミズの動き

ミミズは土中を動き回ることで、通気性と水の浸透性を大幅に向上させます。彼らの絶え間ない活動によって、土中の酸素が均一に分布し、根の発達と全体的な植物の健康に理想的な環境が作られます。しばしば「自然の鍬」と呼ばれるミミズは、人間の介入なしに土の構造を維持する重要な役割を果たします。

Fertilization through Digestion: Earthworms' Contribution to Soil Fertility

As earthworms consume organic matter like fallen leaves, they release nutrient-rich castings, effectively fertilizing the soil. This natural process enriches the soil with essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, improving its fertility and making it more conducive for plant growth. The transformation of decay into rich soil is a testament to the earthworms' pivotal role in agriculture.

消化を通じた施肥：ミミズが土壌肥沃化に貢献

ミミズは落ち葉などの有機物を消費することで、栄養豊富なフンを排出し、土を効果的に施肥します。この自然なプロセスは、窒素やリンなどの必要な栄養素で土を豊かにし、植物の成長に適したより肥沃な環境を作り出します。腐敗が豊かな土に変わるこの変化は、農業におけるミミズの中心的な役割を証明しています。