Evaluation of nutrient status of different organic wastes along with environmental quality in the different phases of vermicomposting by Perionyx excavatus Perrier

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the trend of changes of nutritional status and environmental quality of different decomposing organic wastes in different phases of vermicomposting utilizing an indigenous earthworm's species Perionyx excavatus.

Design/methodology/approach

Four different organic wastes were selected as basic ingredients for vermicompost production. Dried waste materials (2 kg) of each were mixed with dried cow dung and placed in experimental plastic trays with 60 individuals of selected earthworm species. Samples were collected from each tray at an interval of 15 days. Six trays were used: three were with both wastes, three trays having only wastes were treated as control.

Findings

Regression equation has shown the rate of change of nutrients – both in control and experiment vermicomposting units over time – which revealed significant changes of C, N, P and C/N ratio during different phases of vermicomposting.

Practical implications

Vermitechnology is now being considered as an eco‐friendly, user‐friendly and cost‐effective biotechnological tool for the conversion of decomposable organic wastes into valuable organic manure, ensuring pollution abatement, self employment and sustainability in agriculture.

Originality/value

The paper helps to identify the potential of locally available earthworm species and organic materials for the mass production of vermicompost involving local peoples and locally available bioresources.

Citation

Chanda, G.K., Bhunia, G. and Chakraborty, S.K. (2010), "Evaluation of nutrient status of different organic wastes along with environmental quality in the different phases of vermicomposting by Perionyx excavatus Perrier", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 21 No. 3, pp. 368-378. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777831011036911