Efficacy leaf litters as substrate on reproductive potential of epigeic earthworm Eudrilus eugeniae

The study was aimed to analyze the vermicomposting ability and reproductive potential of Eudrilus eugeniae in different leaf litters such as Arthrocarpus heterophyllus, Mangifera indica, Coffea arabica, Psidium guajava, Morus alba, Erythrina veriegata, Gliricidia sepia, Lawsonia inermis, Musa paradisica, Cinnamon zeylanicum and Ficus religiosa with native Vechur breed cow dung as the reference sample. E. eugeniae showed highest reproductive potential in F. religiosa, C. arabica, M. alba, M. indica, A. heterophyllus, P. guajava when compared to control samples. Whereas, lowest reproductive potential observed in culture medium with G. sepia, M. paradisica, C. zeylanicum, L. inermis. The phytochemical components of leaf litters can directly effects the microbial activities during decomposition process. The results, indicates that leaf litters can be converted into value added manure for sustainable soil fertility management program.