Potential of Allolobophora parva (Oligochaeta) in vermicomposting.
The aim of this study was to assess the potential of Allolobophora parva Eisen as a candidate for vermicomposting practices. Five organic waste mixtures: cow dung (CD), biogas plant slurry (BGS), cow dung+vegetable waste (CD+VW), BGS+VW and VW+Soil were vermicomposted using A. parva. Vermicomposting showed a decrease in pH, organic C and C:N ratio, but increase total N, available P and exchangeable K at the end. C:N ratio of end material (vermicompost) was within the agronomic acceptable limit (<20). The high level of NPK in worm-processed material indicates the candidature of this species for waste management operations. The earthworm also showed an excellent growth in different wastes. Results thus indicate that A. parva appeared a potential tool for conversion of organic wastes into value added products for sustainable land restoration practices.
Suthar
Surindra
S
Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, Hauz Khas, New Delhi 110 016, India. suthariitd@gmail.com
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D018533:Biomass; D009835:Oligochaeta / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism*; D011157:Population Dynamics; D012098:Reproduction; D012987:Soil; D014866:Waste Products
D012987:Soil; D014866:Waste Products