Bio-Conversion of Korai Waste (Cyperus rotundus) into Vermicompost Utilizing a Temperate Earthworm, Eisenia foetida

The vermibeds were prepared by mixing the processed korai wastes with cured cow dung in different proportions viz., 50:50, 60:40, and 70:30 (each concentration in triplicates) and they were filled in the plastic trays, individually. Simultaneously, a control for each of these concentrations was prepared and maintained. Sixty Eisenia foetida adult worms were introduced into each of these trays excepting the controls. The conversion ratio of wastes into vermicompost was found to be high in 50:50 proportions (68%). The cocoons and young ones production was found to be higher in 50:50 proportion than the other two proportions. Further the results also reveal that 50:50 concentrations retained all the adult worms (60) when compared to the other two concentrations. Further, vermicompost obtained from 50:50 concentrations had desired level of chemical nutrients when compared to the other two concentrations viz., 60:40 and 70:30. The results of the present study obviously suggest that the korai wastes with cow dung at 50:50 concentrations can very well be used for converting into value added vermicompost by utilizing E. foetida.