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. ON 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. (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.