Effect of different combinations of feed material of cattle dung with kitchen waste on growth rate of earthworm Eutyphoeus waltoni Michaelsen

In this study the effect of different combinations of animal dung (buffalo, cow, and goat) with kitchen wastes (vegetable wastes and banana peels) on the growth rate of Eutyphoeus waltoni during vermicomposting has been investigated. To identify the most potential feed material combination for enhancement of earthworm growth, the experiment was conducted using different combination of animal dung with kitchen waste as well as dung alone. Significant growth rate of Eutyphoeus waltoni was observed in all the binary combinations of animal dung with vegetable waste and banana peels whereas; the maximum growth rate was observed in the combination of buffalo dung and vegetable waste present in (1:1) ratio. It may be due to the balanced nutrient profile provided by the mixture, which enhances the decomposition process and creates an ideal environment for earthworm growth. The feed material combination of buffalo dung and vegetable waste in (1:1) ratio is suitable for better growth and development of earthworm Eutyphoeus waltoni which not only enhances the growth rate of earthworm but also contribute to efficient waste management by converting organic waste into nutrient-rich vermicompost.