Effect of Moisture Content on Quality of Vermicompost and Specific Earthworm (Periyonix excavatus) Population
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Date
2011
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Uva Wellassa University of Srilanka
Abstract
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The aim of the present agriculture practices is to be obtaining high yield using genetically modified, sterilized hybrid seed. The other side of modernization was degradation of fertile agricultural lands due to dependence on chemical fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides. Continuous use of those inputs has damaged the biodiversity. Vermicomposting is an ecofriendly, socially sound and economically viable technology to protect environment. Vermicompost contains not only worm castings, but also bedding materials and organic wastes at various stages of decomposition. Therefore, it provides high porosity, moisture content, aeration and water holding capacity. And also it has been shown to have higher level of organic carbon, total and available N, P, K and other micronutrients, microbial and enzyme activities and plant growth regulators. Therefore, it can be a good replacement to chemical fertilizer. Even though vermicomposting is an age old process, due to rapid changes in technology in present scenario it is essential to change such process with application of advanced technique available. The moisture content plays a significant role in the process of vermicomosting. Therefore the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of moisture content on quality of vermicompost and Periyonix excavatus earthworm population.
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Keywords
Bioprocess Technology, Agriculture, Geochemistry