Effect of Seasonal Variations and Different Organic Wastes on Growth Parameters and Fecundity of E. fetida

Abstract

Earthworms are major contributors to soil biodiversity; they are the basic driver of abiotic and biotic soil properties, also known as important ecosystem engineers in terrestrial soils. Their feeding, damming and casting affects pedogenesis, soil structure, water regulation, bioremediation of toxins, distribution of organic matter and soil structure. E. fetida, an exotic species also known as the red wriggler, has been shown to have wide international potential for converting organic waste into high-value compost useful for plant growth media called vermicomposts. These red worms are active year-round and can tolerate a wide range of temperature and humidity fluctuations. These worms have strong capacity to survive due to its regenerative capacities and this capacity depends on the amputation site, ambient conditions and developmental stages involved. Worm growth patterns in different types of organic wastes have been investigated by various authors in laboratory studies. Animal manure is used as the main substrate for E. fetida. They can easily multiply on a variety of organic wastes in a short generation time and are therefore a standard test organism used in terrestrial ecotoxicology