Abstract
The growth, fecundity and mortality of the epigeic earthworm Eisenia fetida in cattle manure solids and pig manure solids with different moisture contents (70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%) were studied for 30 weeks in the laboratory. The maximum weight of E. fetida in the pig manure solids, which had a moisture content of 75%, was 1100 mg after 13 weeks with a highest growth rate of 12.8 mg d –1. The total number of cocoons and hatchlings produced was lower, compared to those in all the other moisture levels. Generally, earthworms grew bigger and faster in pig manure solids than in separated cattle manure solids but the mortality at all moisture levels in pig manure solids was high, ranging from 20% to 100%. The C/N ratio, NH 4 and NO 3 contents in the cattle manure solids and pig manure solids were variable both at the beginning of the experiment and in the earthworm casts or vermicomposts.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
