In this study, a method for creating networked macropores through tillage using Eisenia fetida attracted by food sources derived from decomposing straw was proposed. The effects of Eisenia fetida activity and corn stalk addition, as well as the synergistic effects of Bacillus subtilis, on macropore formation were systematically studied. A 3D visualization technique was used to render the pore network model. When compared with undisturbed soil, the results demonstrate that cultivation using earthworms attracted by food sources from decomposing straw creates a soil pore structure with the most significant effect. The 3D porosity of the soil increased 6.90-fold, its average pore volume increased 5.49-fold, and its equivalent diameter increased 4.88-fold. Cylindrical pores, which accounted for the largest proportion (4.38%), had a channel radius of 1–5 mm and comprised approximately 86.7% of all macropores. The channel length increased by 28.5%, the average roundness decreased by 2.5%, and the average coordination number increased by 33.3%. The macroporous network structure formed by these earthworm-generated pores was more beneficial for improving the structure of phaeozem, offering technical support for the field application of earthworm farming.
Black soil, as a vital environment for food production, is currently facing severe degradation. Earthworm tillage is recognized as an effective approach to improving black soil structure; however, its optimal implementation strategy remains unclear. In this study, a pot experiment using Pak Choi (Brassica rapa L. ssp. chinensis) was conducted under an orthogonal design with three factors—earthworm size, application timing, and quantity. Combined with yield measurement, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and grey relational analysis (GRA), the effects of earthworm application on plant growth and soil structure were systematically evaluated. In addition, Computer Tomography (CT) scanning and three-dimensional reconstruction were employed to visualize the pore structures of representative soil samples. The results showed that large earthworms significantly enhanced both leaf and root biomass of Pak Choi, exhibiting a stronger promoting effect than small earthworms. Application at the sowing stage resulted in the greatest yield improvement, whereas applications at other growth stages had limited effects. The number of earthworms did not show a statistically significant impact under the experimental conditions, and its potential influence requires further verification under more refined density gradients. Overall, this study elucidates the mechanisms by which earthworm tillage improves soil structure and promotes crop growth, providing a theoretical basis for the restoration and sustainable utilization of degraded black soil.