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An Outstanding Perspective on Biological Dynamics in Vermicomposting Matrices

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Vermicomposting for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa

Part of the book series: Sustainability Sciences in Asia and Africa ((SAFS))

Abstract

Vermicomposting is the decomposition of organic waste by earthworms and microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. When various organic wastes are vermicomposted, a nutrient-rich product that can be used as a plant biofertiliser is produced. However, to optimise vermicomposting, a better understanding of the underlying biological dynamics in the vermicomposting community is required. This chapter seeks to explore the biological dynamics during vermicomposting. Firstly, critical organisms involved in vermicomposting, their roles, and the biotransformation processes involved are critically examined. The yields of vermicompost by different vermicomposting substrates and earthworm species are summarised. Methods for identifying vermicomposting organismal drivers are highlighted. Bacterial succession during vermicomposting is highlighted, as well as various benefits associated with applications of vermicomposting. Lastly, as part of the biological dynamics in vermicomposting, the effects of bacteria and earthworms on plant growth and health are summarised. Understanding biological dynamics in vermicomposting, as a result, can pave the way for novel techniques that have the potential to improve vermicompost quality, thereby improving plant growth and health.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Natural Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe

    Jerikias Marumure & Zakio Makuvara

  2. Department of Veterinary Technical Services, Central Veterinary Laboratories, Harare, Zimbabwe

    Claudious Gufe

  3. Biological Sciences Department, Bindura University of Science Education, Bindura, Zimbabwe

    Richwell Alufasi

  4. Gary Magadzire School of Agriculture, Great Zimbabwe University, Masvingo, Zimbabwe

    Ngavaite Chigede

  5. Materials Development Unit, Zimbabwe Open University, Harare, Zimbabwe

    Rangarirayi Karidzagundi

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  1. Jerikias Marumure
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  3. Claudious Gufe
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  5. Ngavaite Chigede
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  6. Rangarirayi Karidzagundi
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Correspondence to Jerikias Marumure .

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  1. Sam Nujoma Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center, University of Namibia, Henties Bay, Namibia

    Hupenyu Allan Mupambwa

  2. Centre for Research Services, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia

    Lydia Ndinelao Horn

  3. Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Arusha, Arusha, Tanzania

    Pearson Nyari Stephano Mnkeni

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Marumure, J., Makuvara, Z., Gufe, C., Alufasi, R., Chigede, N., Karidzagundi, R. (2023). An Outstanding Perspective on Biological Dynamics in Vermicomposting Matrices. In: Mupambwa, H.A., Horn, L.N., Mnkeni, P.N.S. (eds) Vermicomposting for Sustainable Food Systems in Africa. Sustainability Sciences in Asia and Africa(). Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-8080-0_4

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