Biochemical properties of compost as influenced by earthworms and feed material

Composting basically being a microbiological process, enzymatic activities can be part of a reliable measure of compost stability and maturity. A study was, therefore, conducted to compare the biochemical properties of composts, prepared using three materials of varying C:N ratios viz. legume residue, leaf litter and wheat straw. The three materials were composted separately with and without earthworms. The results showed that both urease and phosphatase activity of the compost increased significantly due to earthworm activity while there was no significant increase in microbial biomass and cellulase activity. Material used as feed stock also had significant influence on the biochemical properties of the compost. The high humic acid content in the vermicompost also implies the good quality and maturity of the compost.