Vermicomposting Process

Abstract

Vermicomposting is a novel municipal biosolids and solid waste treatment process that uses earthworms (Oligochaete annelids) for the biodegradation of the biosolids and/or solid waste. This system is alternately called earthworm conversion, vermicomposting, vermistabilization, worm composting, or annelidic consumption. The worms maintain aerobic conditions in the organic substances while accelerating and enhancing the biological decomposition of the organic substances. The main product of the vermicomposting (earthworm conversion) process is the worm’s castings. In some process arrangements, there may be a net earthworm production. The excess earthworms may then be sold as fish bait or animal protein supplement. Earthworm marketing is a complex problem; for municipal biosolids applications, surplus earthworms might be considered as a byproduct, while the principal product is the castings, which can be a resource.