| dc.description.abstract | Vermicomposting, a process of composting done
by using Red Wigglers and black soldier fly larvae (BSFL)
offers a sustainable solution for organic waste management.
This study aims to compare the performance of Red Wigglers
and BSFL in vermicomposting and evaluate their suitability
for different waste types which were yard, kitchen, and food
waste. Each waste type was mixed with the compost filling
(Cow dung, hay, sand, banana cuttings) in separate 9 pots (3
pots per each waste type). Red wigglers and BSFL were added
to each waste type, separately and the remaining 3 setups
were maintained as controls. pH and temperature
measurements were monitored throughout the
vermicomposting process, revealing optimal conditions for
both organisms, and counting the Red Wigglers and BSFL
every week. Results indicate that BSFL exhibit higher
efficiency in breaking down organic matter under specific
temperature conditions, at a range of 27-30 ℃ and pH
conditions at a range of 6-7. The mean rate of growth/decline
per week in food, kitchen and yard waste respected to Red
Wigglers were 1.00, 0.72 and -1.00 and respected to BSFL
1.86, 11.86 and 18.00. A significant difference between the
rate of growth/decline of Red Wigglers and BSFL was proved
statistically (ANOVA test). The compost piles which
contribute to increase the population of decomposers leads to
increase the efficiency of composting. Food waste undergoes
the highest rate of fermentation, increasing acidity which
promotes rapid growth of BSFL that thrive in acidic
conditions. Also, BSFL can stabilize in the acidic pH than Red
Wigglers. It can be concluded that Food waste is preferred to
BSFL than yard waste and kitchen waste and yard waste is
preferred to Red Wigglers. | en_US |
