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Changes in microbial community structure and function during vermicomposting of pig slurry
María Gómez-Brandón1, Manuel Aira, Marta Lores
1Departamento de Ecología y Biología Animal, Universidade de Vigo, E-36310 Vigo, Spain. mariagomez@uvigo.es
Bioresource Technology
|January 12, 2011
Summary
Earthworm activity in vermicomposting significantly alters microbial communities. While reducing overall biomass and diversity, earthworms stimulate microbial activity and carbon mineralization in younger waste layers.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
- Soil Science
Background:
- Most vermicomposting studies examine microbial changes only before and after the process.
- The dynamic impact of earthworms on microbial communities throughout vermicomposting remains underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Eisenia fetida on microbial community structure and function during continuous vermicomposting.
- To evaluate earthworm impact across an age gradient of pig slurry.
Main Methods:
- Utilized continuous feeding reactors with sequential addition of pig slurry (1.5 and 3 kg).
- Established an age gradient of organic matter within the reactors.
- Analyzed bacterial and fungal biomass, microbial diversity, and carbon mineralization.
Main Results:
- Earthworm activity significantly reduced bacterial and fungal biomass and microbial diversity compared to controls.
- Earthworms in younger layers stimulated microbial activity and increased carbon mineralization.
- The ratio of monounsaturated to saturated phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) indicated reduced resource limitation for microorganisms.
Conclusions:
- Eisenia fetida profoundly influences microbial community dynamics during vermicomposting.
- Earthworm presence can enhance carbon mineralization in recently added organic matter.
- Continuous feeding systems provide insights into the temporal effects of earthworms on microbial processes.
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