Vermicomposting of Animal Waste: Method, Advantages and Precautions

Scientific investigations have established the viability of using earthworms as a treatment technique for numerous waste streams besides producing organic fertilizers. Vermicomposting results in the bioconversion of the animal dung/waste into two useful products, earthworm biomass and Vermicompost. This study was carried out to utilize the animal dung (buffalo and cattle) for large scale preparation of Vermicompost and culturing of earthworms. Fourteen Vermibeds of animal waste (each contains 50–60 Kg dung) with standardized dimensions were prepared in two different seasons (summer and winter). Eisenia foetida species of earthworms was inoculated in each bed at the rate of 1Kg/50–60 Kg dung. Texture of the dung started changing due to Vermicomposting after 60–65 days of worm's inoculation in winter and 40–45 days in summer. Moisture content (40–50 %) and temperature (20–300C) of these beds were maintained by regular sprinkling of the water and covering with leaves. To protect the earthworms from predators, frequent observation of the bed was done. The prepared Vermicompost was rich in macro- and micro-nutrients and earthworms multiplied by this method were supplied as fish food. It is concluded that Vermibedding method and Eisenia foetida species are the two reliable factors for large scale preparation of Vermicompost and rapid multiplication of earthworms both in winter and summer seasons.