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Short-term stabilization of grape marc through earthworms
María Gómez-Brandón1, Cristina Lazcano, Marta Lores
1Departamento de Ecología y Biología Animal, Universidade de Vigo, E-36310 Vigo Spain. mariagomez@uvigo.es
Journal of Hazardous Materials
|February 1, 2011
Summary
Earthworms effectively stabilize winery waste like grape marc during vermicomposting. This process reduces microbial activity and organic matter, making waste safer for soil application.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- The wine industry produces significant organic waste, particularly grape marc.
- Vermicomposting offers a biological solution for stabilizing solid organic waste.
- Grape marc is a lignocellulosic byproduct requiring effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of the active phase of vermicomposting for grape marc stabilization.
- To analyze the chemical, biochemical, and microbiological changes during vermicomposting.
- To compare vermicomposted grape marc with a control treatment.
Main Methods:
- A mesocosm experiment was conducted to study vermicomposting.
- Analysis included chemical, biochemical, and microbiological properties.
- Phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) biomarkers were used to assess microbial communities.
Main Results:
- Earthworm activity significantly reduced bacterial and fungal PLFA biomarkers.
- Microbial activity, protease, and cellulase activities decreased.
- Labile carbon pool and cellulose content were reduced, indicating stabilization.
Conclusions:
- Earthworms play a crucial role in the short-term stabilization of grape marc.
- Vermicomposting effectively modifies organic matter decomposition and microbial dynamics.
- The process yields a more stabilized material suitable for soil amendment.
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