Characterization of fresh cow dung samples during pretreatment in vermicomposting process

Abstract

It is well established that the quantity and quality of the nutrients obtained from excreta of earthworms during vermicomposting process is influenced by various impact factors especially feed input. Characterizing the feed could serve as vital knowledge in understanding earthworms' diet and its output. In this study, fresh cow dung samples were collected and subjected to physico-chemical, proximate, and spectroscopic studies adhering chemical characterization principles in order to assess the quality during pretreatment process (aerobic composting). As reported by many researchers, aerobic composting of organic materials always resulted in the reduction of nutrients to matured and stable compost. During 230 days of assessment, tremendous changes on the nutrient content were observed. Specifically, the fate of C/N ratio, protein content, moisture and organic matter were reduced significantly. The observed trend during composting could be applied to understand the desire of earthworms towards their feed and in turn, these attributes can increase their activity and output.