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Published on: September 13, 2022
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Earthworms modify microbial community structure and accelerate maize stover decomposition during vermicomposting.
Yuxiang Chen1,2, Yufen Zhang3, Quanguo Zhang3
1College of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun, 130025, China.
Summary
Earthworms like Eisenia fetida enhance maize stover vermicomposting by promoting lignocellulose decomposition. This process increases microbial diversity and activates key degrading microorganisms.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Microbiology
- Soil Science
Background:
- Maize stover is an abundant agricultural residue with high lignocellulose content.
- Efficient decomposition of lignocellulose is crucial for nutrient cycling and waste management.
- Vermicomposting offers a sustainable method for organic waste treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the epigeic earthworm Eisenia fetida in maize stover vermicomposting.
- To analyze the impact of earthworm activity on microbial community structure and function.
- To determine the effect of vermicomposting on lignocellulose degradation.
Main Methods:
- Maize stover was vermicomposted using Eisenia fetida.
- High-throughput pyrosequencing was employed to analyze bacterial community structure.
- Microbial community composition and relative abundance of specific genera were assessed.
Main Results:
- Eisenia fetida significantly promoted the decomposition of maize stover.
- Vermicomposting led to a more complex bacterial community structure compared to the control.
- The relative abundance of lignocellulose-degrading microorganisms increased in the earthworm-treated substrate.
- Dominant genera identified included Pseudoxanthomonas, Pseudomonas, Arthrobacter, Streptomyces, Cryptococcus, Guehomyces, and Mucor.
Conclusions:
- Earthworms modify microbial community structure during maize stover vermicomposting.
- Vermicomposting activates lignocellulose-degrading microorganisms.
- Eisenia fetida enhances the decomposition of lignocellulose in maize stover, offering a viable biotechnological approach.
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