1H NMR-based metabolomics of time-dependent responses of Eisenia fetida to sub-lethal phenanthrene exposure

► NMR-based earthworm metabolomic analysis of the mode of action of phenanthrene is presented. ► The earthworm species E. fetida were exposed to sub-lethal phenanthrene concentrations. ► Both polar and non-polar metabolites of E. fetida tissue extracts were analyzed by 1H NMR. ► Longer phenanthrene exposure times resulted in heightened earthworm responses. ► An interruption of the Krebs cycle was also observed due to phenanthrene exposure.