Advancing Agricultural Sustainability: Vermicomposting as a Biochemical Pathway for Improved Soil Health and Climate Resilience

Abstract

This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted role of vermicomposting in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing its biochemical processes and impact on soil systems. Beginning with the concept, the document delves into the intricacies of the vermicomposting process, including the selection of suitable earthworm species for vermiculture. It further examines the biochemical transformations that occur during vermicomposting, such as the optimization of the carbon to nitrogen ratio, alterations in organic carbon content, and the modulation of soil pH and electrical conductivity. The accumulation of heavy metals and the transformation of nitrogen and phosphorus are also discussed, alongside the process of humification. Subsequently, the profound effects of vermicompost on soil properties, highlighting its influence on physical characteristics, organic matter content, mineralization, and nutrient dynamics, as well as the enhancement of humus content was deeply reviewed. The document also investigates the implications of vermicomposting on plant growth and yield, providing insights into its potential to increase agricultural productivity. Additionally, the review addresses the impact of vermicomposting on greenhouse gas emissions, underscoring its significance in the context of climate-smart farming practices. Arising from detailed synthesis of the findings, vermicomposting is a pivotal component of climate-resilient agriculture, offering a pathway to healthier soil ecosystems and a sustainable future.