A unique compound of chemicals has been discovered in the guts of earthworms in a study on how these creatures break down toxins in soil. This study centered on polyphenols, chemical compounds produced by plants that contain phenol, aka carbolic acid. Soil is polyphenol-rich, meaning earthworms – who eat and process soil – need to cope with a “high-polyphenol diet.” They eat toxins, how do they do it? As it turns out, earthworms work with a compound scientists are calling “drilodefensin”, able to metabolize these toxins effectively.
via Slash Gear
