From the BBC: Earthworms to aid soil clean-up.

Scientists have discovered how metal-munching earthworms can help plants to clean up contaminated soils.

Researchers at Reading University found that subtle changes occurred in metals as worms ingested and excreted soil.

These changes make it easier for plants to take up potentially toxic metals from contaminated land.

Earthworms could be the future "21st Century eco-warriors", scientists suggested at the British Association Science Festival in Liverpool. [continue]