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Grasserová A, Pacheco NIN, Semerád J, Filipová A, Innemanová P, Hanč A, Procházková P, Cajthaml T. New insights into vermiremediation of sewage sludge: The effect of earthworms on micropollutants and vice versa. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 174:496-508. [PMID: 38128368 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Vermicomposting represents an environmentally friendly method for the treatment of various types of biowastes, including sewage sludge (SS), as documented in numerous studies. However, there are few papers providing insights into the mechanisms and toxicity effects involved in SS vermicomposting to present a comprehensive overview of the process. In this work, the vermiremediation of SS containing various micropollutants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors, and per/polyfluoroalkyl substances, was studied. Two SSs originating from different wastewater treatment plants (WWTP1 and WWTP2) were mixed with a bulking agent, moistened straw, at ratios of 0, 25, 50, and 75% SS. Eisenia andrei earthworms were introduced into the mixtures, and after six weeks, the resulting materials were subjected to various types of chemical and toxicological analyses, including conventional assays (mortality, weight) as well as tissue- and cell-level assays, such as malondialdehyde production, cytotoxicity tests and gene expression assays. Through the vermiremediation process significant removal of diclofenac (90%), metoprolol (88%), telmisartan (62%), and triclosan (81%) was achieved. Although the concentrations of micropollutants were substantially different in the original SS samples, the micropollutants vermiaccumulated to a similar extent over the incubation period. The earthworms substantially eliminated the present bacterial populations, especially in the 75% SS treatments, in which the average declines were 90 and 79% for WWTP1 and WWTP2, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the vermiremediation of such a large group of micropollutants in real SS samples and provide a thorough evaluation of the effect of SS on earthworms at tissue and cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena Grasserová
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, Prague 2, 12801, Czech Republic; Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Natividad I N Pacheco
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic; First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Kateřinská 32, Prague 2, 12108, Czech Republic; Laboratory of Ecotoxicology, Institute of Environmental Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45004 Toledo, Spain
| | - Jaroslav Semerád
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Alena Filipová
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Innemanová
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, Prague 2, 12801, Czech Republic; DEKONTA a.s, Dřetovice 109, Stehelčeves, 27342, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Hanč
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, Prague 6, 16500, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Procházková
- Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Cajthaml
- Institute for Environmental Studies, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Benátská 2, Prague 2, 12801, Czech Republic; Institute of Microbiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, Prague 4, 14220, Czech Republic.
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Chowdhury SD, Hasim Suhaib K, Bhunia P, Surampalli RY. A Critical Review on the Vermicomposting of Organic Wastes as a Strategy in Circular Bioeconomy: Mechanism, Performance, and Future Perspectives. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2023:1-38. [PMID: 37192135 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2023.2215458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
AbstractTo meet the current need for sustainable development, vermicomposting (VC), a natural, eco-friendly, and cost-effective technology, can be a wise selection for the bioconversion of organic wastes into value-added by-products. However, no one has tried to establish the VC technology as an economically sustainable technology by exploring its linkage to circular bioeconomy. Even, no researcher has made any effort to explore the usability of the earthworms (EWs) as a protein supplement while assessing the economic perspectives of VC technology. Very few studies are available on the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission potential of VC technology. Still, the contribution of VC technology towards the non-carbon waste management policy is not yet explored. In the current review, a genuine effort has been made to inspect the contribution of VC technology towards the circular bioeconomy, along with evaluating its capability to bioremediate the organic wastes generated from domestic, industrial, and agricultural premises. The potential of the EWs as a protein source has also been explored to strengthen the contribution of VC technology towards the circular bioeconomy. Moreover, the linkage of the VC technology to the non-carbon waste management policy has been comprehensively demonstrated by highlighting its carbon sequestration and GHG emission potentials during the treatment of organic wastes. It has been observed that the cost of food production was reduced by 60--70% by replacing chemical fertilizers with vermicompost. The implication of the vermicompost significantly lessened the harvesting period of the crops, thereby helping the farmers attain higher profits by cultivating more crops in a single calendar year on the same plot. Furthermore, the vermicompost could hold the soil moisture for a long time, lessening the water demand up to 30-40%, which, in turn, reduced the frequency of irrigation. Also, the replacement of the chemical fertilizers with vermicompost resulted in a 23% increment in the grapes' yield, engendering an extra profit of up to 110000 rupees/ha. In Nepal, vermicompost has been produced at a cost of 15.68 rupees/kg, whereas it has been sold to the local market at a rate of 25 rupees/kg as organic manure, ensuring a net profit of 9.32 rupees/kg of vermicompost. EWs embraced 63% crude protein, 5-21% carbohydrates, 6-11% fat, 1476 kJ/100 g of metabolizable energy, and a wide range of minerals and vitamins. EWs also contained 4.11, 2.04, 4.43, 2.83, 1.47, and 6.26 g/kg (on protein basis) of leucine, isoleucine, tryptophan, arginine, histidine, and phenylalanine, respectively, enhancing the acceptability of the EW meal (EWM) as the protein supplement. The inclusion of 3 and 5% EWM in the diet of broiler pullets resulted in a 12.6 and 22.5% increase in their feed conversion ratio (FCR), respectively after one month. Similarly, when a 100% fish meal was substituted by 50% EWM and 50% fish meal, the FCR and growth rate of Parachanna obscura were increased substantially. The VC of maize crop residues mixed with pig manure, cow dung, and biochar, in the presence of Eisenia fetida EWs, yielded only 0.003-0.081, 0-0.17, and 130.40-189.10 g CO2-eq.kg-1 emissions of CO2, CH4, and N2O, respectively. Similarly, the VC of tomato stems and cow dung ensured 2.28 and 5.76 g CO2-eq.kg-1 CO2 emissions of CH4 and N2O, respectively. Additionally, the application of vermicompost at a rate of 5 t/ha improved the soil organic carbon proportion and aggravated carbon sequestration. The land application of vermicompost improved micro-aggregation and cut down the tillage, reducing GHG emissions and triggering carbon sequestration. The significant findings of the current review suggest that VC technology potentially contributes to the concept of circular bioeconomy, substantially negotiates potential GHG emissions, and complies with the non-carbon waste management policy, reinforcing its acceptability as an economically sound and environmentally benevolent organic waste bioremediation alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanket Dey Chowdhury
- Research Scholar, Environmental Engineering, School of Infrastructure, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar-752 050, Odisha, India, ,
| | - K Hasim Suhaib
- Research Scholar, Environmental Engineering, School of Infrastructure, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar-752 050, Odisha, India, ,
| | - Puspendu Bhunia
- Research Scholar, Environmental Engineering, School of Infrastructure, Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneswar-752 050, Odisha, India, ,
| | - Rao Y Surampalli
- CEO and President, Global Institute for Energy, Environment, and Sustainability, P.O. Box 14354 Lenexa, Kansas 66285, USA,
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Gudeta K, Kumar V, Bhagat A, Julka JM, Bhat SA, Ameen F, Qadri H, Singh S, Amarowicz R. Ecological adaptation of earthworms for coping with plant polyphenols, heavy metals, and microplastics in the soil: A review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14572. [PMID: 36994405 PMCID: PMC10040515 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, soil pollution by massive accumulation of heavy metals (HMs), microplastics, and refractory hydrocarbon chemicals has become an emerging and global concern, drawing worldwide attention. These pollutants influence soil diversity by hindering the reproduction, abundance, thereby affecting aboveground productivity. The scientific community has recently emphasized the contribution of earthworms to heavy metal accumulation, microplastic degradation, and the decomposition of organic matter in the soil, which helps maintain the soil structure. This review paper aimed to compile scientific facts on how earthworms cope with the effect of HMs, microplastics, and plant polyphenols so that vermiremediation could be widely applied for well-being of the soil ecosystem by environmentalists. Earthworms have special surface-active metabolites in their guts called drilodefensins that help them defend themselves against the oxidative action of plant polyphenols. They also combat the effects of toxic microplastics, and other oxidative compounds by elevating the antioxidant activities of their enzymes and converting them into harmless compounds or useful nutrients. Moreover, earthworms also act as biofilters, bioindicators, bioaccumulators, and transformers of oxidative polyphenols, microplastics, toxic HMs, and other pollutant hydrocarbons. Microorganisms (fungi and bacteria) in earthworms' gut of also assist in the fixation, accumulation, and transformation of these toxicants to prevent their effects. As a potential organism for application in ecotoxicology, it is recommended to propagate earthworms in agricultural fields; isolate, and culture enormously in industry, and inoculate earthworms in the polluted soil, thereby abate toxicity and minimizing the health effect caused by these pollutants as well enhance the productivity of crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasahun Gudeta
- Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
- Adama Science and Technology University, Department of Applied Biology, P.O. Box 1888, Adama, Ethiopia
| | - Vineet Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Rajasthan, Kishangarh, Ajmer, 305817, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ankeet Bhagat
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Jatinder Mohan Julka
- Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Solan, 173229, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
- Corresponding author.
| | - Fuad Ameen
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Humaira Qadri
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J&K Higher Education Department, Govt. Degree College, Baramulla, 193101, Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Sumit Singh
- Department of Zoology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, 143005, India
| | - Ryszard Amarowicz
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, 10-748, Poland
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Shafique I, Andleeb S, Naeem F, Ali S, Tabassam T, Sultan T, Almas Abbasi M. Cow dung putrefaction via vermicomposting using Eisenia fetida and its influence on seed sprouting and vegetative growth of Viola wittrockiana (pansy). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279828. [PMID: 36800331 PMCID: PMC9937483 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The current research was conducted at Vermi-tech Unit, Muzaffarabad in 2018 to evaluate the efficacy of cow dung and vermicompost on seed sprouting, seedlings, and vegetative developmental parameters of Viola x wittrokiana (pansy). In the current study, vermicompost was produced using Eisenia fetida. Physicochemical parameters of vermicompost and organic manure were recorded before each experimentation. The potting experiment was designed and comprised of eight germination mediums containing different combinations of soil, sand, cow dung, and various concentrations of vermicompost such as 10% VC, 15% VC, 20% VC, 25% VC, 30% VC, and 35% VC. Seed sprouting and seedling developmental parameters were observed for 28 days while vegetative plant growth parameters were recorded after 10 weeks of transplantation in various vermicompost amended germination media. Pre and post-physicochemical analysis of germination media were also recorded to check their quality and permanency. The current findings showed that 30% VC germination media was an effective dose for early seed germination initiation and all seed germination parameters. However, the significant vegetative plant growth and flowering parameters of pansy occurred at 35% VC. Findings revealed that vermicompost not only enhanced the seed germination and growth of pansy but also improved soil health. These results indicate that vermicompost can be exploited as a potent bio-fertilizer for ornamental plant production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irsa Shafique
- Department of Zoology, Microbial Biotechnology and Vermi-Technology Laboratory, Vermi-tech Unit, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan
| | - Saiqa Andleeb
- Department of Zoology, Microbial Biotechnology and Vermi-Technology Laboratory, Vermi-tech Unit, University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muzaffarabad, Pakistan
- * E-mail: ,
| | | | - Shaukat Ali
- Department of Zoology, GC University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Tauseef Tabassam
- Land Resources Research Institute, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tariq Sultan
- Land Resources Research Institute, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council, Islamabad, Pakistan
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IndraKumar Singh S, Singh WR, Bhat SA, Sohal B, Khanna N, Vig AP, Ameen F, Jones S. Vermiremediation of allopathic pharmaceutical industry sludge amended with cattle dung employing Eisenia fetida. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113766. [PMID: 35780853 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study aims to vermiremediate allopathic pharmaceutical industry sludge (AS) amended with cattle dung (CD), in different feed mixtures (AS:CD) i.e (AS0) 0:100 [Positive control], (AS25) 25:75, (AS50) 50:50, (AS75) 75:25 and (AS100) 100:0 [Negative Control] for 180 days using earthworm Eisenia fetida. The earthworms could thrive and grow well up to the AS75 feed mixture. In the final vermicompost, there were significant decreases in electrical conductivity (29.18-18.70%), total organic carbon (47.48-22.39%), total organic matter (47.47-22.36%), and C: N ratio (78.15-54.59%). While, significant increases in pH (9.06-16.47%), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (69.57-139.58%), total available phosphorus (30.30-81.56%), total potassium (8.92-22.22%), and total sodium (50.56-62.12%). The heavy metals like Cr (50-18.60%), Cd (100-75%), Pb (57.14-40%), and Ni (100-50%) were decreased, whereas Zn (8.37-53.77%), Fe (199.03-254.27%), and Cu (12.90-100%) increased significantly. The toxicity of the final vermicompost was shown to be lower in the Genotoxicity analysis, with values ranging between (76-42.33%). The germination index (GI) of Mung bean (Vigna radiata) showed a value ranging between 155.02 and 175.90%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed irregularities with high porosity of texture in the final vermicompost than in initial mixtures. Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra of final vermicompost had low peak intensities than the initial samples. The AS50 feed mixture was the most favorable for the growth and fecundity of Eisenia fetida, emphasizing the role of cattle dung in the vermicomposting process. Thus, it can be inferred that a cost-effective and eco-friendly method (vermicomposting) with the proper amendment of cattle dung and employing Eisenia fetida could transform allopathic sludge into a nutrient-rich, detoxified, stable, and mature vermicompost for agricultural purposes and further could serve as a stepping stone in the allopathic pharmaceutical industry sludge management strategies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soubam IndraKumar Singh
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, Punjab, India
| | - Waikhom Roshan Singh
- Manipur Pollution Control Board (MPCB), Imphal West, DC Office Complex, Imphal, 795001, Manipur, India
| | - Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan.
| | - Bhawana Sohal
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, Punjab, India
| | - Namita Khanna
- Department of Physiology, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot, 151203, Punjab, India
| | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, 143005, Punjab, India; Punjab Pollution Control Board (PPCB), Vatavaran Bhawan, Nabha Road, Patiala, 147001, Punjab, India.
| | - Fuad Ameen
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sumathi Jones
- Department of Pharmacology, Sree Balaji Dental College and Hospital, Pallikaranai, Chennai, 600100, India
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Lirikum, Kakati LN, Thyug L, Mozhui L. Vermicomposting: an eco-friendly approach for waste management and nutrient enhancement. Trop Ecol 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s42965-021-00212-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Testolin RC, Feuzer-Matos AJ, Cotelle S, Adani F, Janke L, Poyer-Radetski G, Pereira AC, Ariente-Neto R, Somensi CA, Radetski CM. Using textile industrial sludge, sewage wastewater, and sewage sludge as inoculum to degrade recalcitrant textile dyes in a co-composting process: an assessment of biodegradation efficiency and compost phytotoxicity. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:49642-49650. [PMID: 33942267 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14211-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recalcitrant dyes found in textile wastewater represent a threat for sustainable textile production due to their resistance to conventional treatments. This study assessed an alternative co-composting system for the treatment of recalcitrant textile dyes where textile industrial sludge, sewage wastewater, or sewage sludge were used as microbial compost inocula. The biodegradation efficiency of bioreactor trials and compost quality of the co-composting system were assessed by visible spectrophotometry and by a phytotoxicity test. The co-composting system (dry weight (dw) basis) consisted of 200 g of restaurant organic residues + 200 g sewage sludge (or 100 mL sewage wastewater, or 200 g textile sludge) + 100 mL of a 10% dye solution (Reactive Red 195, or Synolon Brown, or Orange Remazol, or Yellow Synozol, or Reactive Orange 122, or Reactive Black 5). After 60 days of composting, all dyes were biodegraded according to spectrophotometric data, with efficiency varying from 97.2 to 99.9%. Inoculum efficiency ranking was textile sludge > sewage sludge > sewage wastewater. Regarding compost quality, a phytotoxicity study with lettuce showed no toxicity effect. Thus, co-composting can be a low-cost and efficient method for recalcitrant textile dye biodegradation and for managing textile sludge in terms of waste recycling, contributing to environmental sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renan C Testolin
- Laboratório de Remediação Ambiental, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí, Itajaí, SC, 88302-202, Brazil
| | - Ana Júlia Feuzer-Matos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí, Rua Uruguai, 458, Itajaí, SC, 88302-202, Brazil
| | - Sylvie Cotelle
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, LIEC, F-57000, Metz, France
| | - Fabrizio Adani
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali - Produzione, Università degli studi di Milano, Gruppo Ricicla labs., Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Leandro Janke
- Department of Energy and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Gabriel Poyer-Radetski
- Curso de Geografia, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Av. Madre Benvenuta, 2007, Florianópolis, SC, 88035-001, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Pereira
- Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Campus Araquari, Curso de Mestrado Profissional em Tecnologia e Ambiente, Rodovia BR 280, Km 27, Araquari, SC, 89245-000, Brazil
| | - Rafael Ariente-Neto
- Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Campus Luzerna, Av. Frei João, 550, Luzerna, SC, 89609-000, Brazil
| | - Cleder A Somensi
- Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Campus Araquari, Curso de Mestrado Profissional em Tecnologia e Ambiente, Rodovia BR 280, Km 27, Araquari, SC, 89245-000, Brazil.
| | - Claudemir M Radetski
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência e Tecnologia Ambiental, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí, Rua Uruguai, 458, Itajaí, SC, 88302-202, Brazil.
- Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC), Campus Araquari, Curso de Mestrado Profissional em Tecnologia e Ambiente, Rodovia BR 280, Km 27, Araquari, SC, 89245-000, Brazil.
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Singh A, Karmegam N, Singh GS, Bhadauria T, Chang SW, Awasthi MK, Sudhakar S, Arunachalam KD, Biruntha M, Ravindran B. Earthworms and vermicompost: an eco-friendly approach for repaying nature's debt. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2020; 42:1617-1642. [PMID: 31974693 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-019-00510-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/25/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The steady increase in the world's population has intensified the need for crop productivity, but the majority of the agricultural practices are associated with adverse effects on the environment. Such undesired environmental outcomes may be mitigated by utilizing biological agents as part of farming practice. The present review article summarizes the analyses of the current status of global agriculture and soil scenarios; a description of the role of earthworms and their products as better biofertilizer; and suggestions for the rejuvenation of such technology despite significant lapses and gaps in research and extension programs. By maintaining a close collaboration with farmers, we have recognized a shift in their attitude and renewed optimism toward nature-based green technology. Based on these relations, it is inferred that the application of earthworm-mediated vermitechnology increases sustainable development by strengthening the underlying economic, social and ecological framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Singh
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221 011, India
| | - Natchimuthu Karmegam
- Department of Botany, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Salem, Tamil Nadu, 636 007, India
| | - Gopal Shankar Singh
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, 221 011, India.
| | - Tunira Bhadauria
- Department of Zoology, Feroze Gandhi College, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, 229 001, India
| | - Soon Woong Chang
- Department of Evironmental Energy and Engineering, Kyonggi University, Youngtong Gu, Suwon, 16227, South Korea
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Sivasubramaniam Sudhakar
- Department of Biotechnology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, 627 012, India
| | - Kantha Deivi Arunachalam
- Center for Environmental Nuclear Research, Directorate of Research, SRM institute of science and technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 603 203, India
| | - Muniyandi Biruntha
- Department of Animal Health and Management, Alagappa University, Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu, 630 003, India
| | - Balasubramani Ravindran
- Department of Evironmental Energy and Engineering, Kyonggi University, Youngtong Gu, Suwon, 16227, South Korea.
- Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Faculty of Environment and Labour Safety, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
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Yuvaraj A, Karmegam N, Tripathi S, Kannan S, Thangaraj R. Environment-friendly management of textile mill wastewater sludge using epigeic earthworms: Bioaccumulation of heavy metals and metallothionein production. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2020; 254:109813. [PMID: 31739094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2019.109813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, Eudrilus eugeniae and Perionyx excavatus were used for vermistabilization of textile mill sludge in different combinations with cowdung for 60 days. A higher percentage of metal removal was observed in earthworm treated mixtures for cadmium (54.5%) followed by copper (36.0%), chromium (37.0%) and zinc (35.9%). Vermistabilized textile mill sludge + cowdung (1:1) showed a maximum percentage increase in total NPK, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes with a better earthworm survival rate. A higher amount of metallothionein protein was produced by E. eugeniae than P. excavatus. Further, 100% textile mill sludge showed a number of histological abnormalities like degeneration of cells, cellular debris, and uneven cellular compartmentation while textile mill sludge with cowdung showed normal earthworm histology. Results suggest that textile mill sludge + cowdung (1:1) combination is suitable for vermistabilization of textile mill sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ananthanarayanan Yuvaraj
- Vermitechnology and Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Natchimuthu Karmegam
- Department of Botany, Government Arts College, Salem, 636 007, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sudipta Tripathi
- Department of Agricultural Chemistry and Soil Science, Institute of Agricultural Science, University of Calcutta, Baruipur, Kolkata, 700 144, West Bengal, India
| | - Soundarapandian Kannan
- Proteomics and Molecular Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramasundaram Thangaraj
- Vermitechnology and Ecotoxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, 636 011, Tamil Nadu, India.
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Assessment of qualitative enrichment of organic paper mill wastes through vermicomposting: humification factor and time of maturity. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01638. [PMID: 31111110 PMCID: PMC6512583 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of bioconversion of solid organic wastes through vermicomposting justifies the environmental message for sustainability such as reduce, recycle and reuse of wastes. In the present study, wastes derived from two different types of paper mill sludge (primary and secondary), was used for their bioconversion through the vermicomposting process using an indigenous species of earthworm (Perionyx excavatus). The maturity and stability stage of vermicompost production was assessed using FT-IR, GC-MS and TG analyses. During vermicomposting, different biochemical functional groups present in the wastes have shown differential chemical alteration and turnover as revealed by FT-IR spectroscopy. This study has also confirmed the trend of biodegradation of complex substances like lignin, cellulose, proteins etc. and thereby demonstrates the extent of mineralization. TG spectral analysis had revealed a mass loss of 80% and 71% in vermicompost produced from primary and secondary sludge respectively. GC-MS studies have also shown the presence of several humic acids like octadecanoic acid, heptadecanoic acid etc. in the decomposing substances demonstrating as an indicator of the maturity of products. This was further confirmed by the decrease of humification index which focuses the combined action of both earthworms and microbes in the degradation of organic wastes. The present study has highlighted the role of an indigenous earthworm in converting specific industrial wastes especially by recording the point of maturation using humic acids an indicator of the quality of decomposing of wastes following several instrumental applications.
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11
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Cui G, Li F, Li S, Bhat SA, Ishiguro Y, Wei Y, Yamada T, Fu X, Huang K. Changes of quinolone resistance genes and their relations with microbial profiles during vermicomposting of municipal excess sludge. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 644:494-502. [PMID: 29990900 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance genes abundant in municipal excess sludge reduce the agricultural value of vermicompost. However, little attention has been paid on the fate and behavior of the problem-causing agents in vermicomposting. In this study, the fate and behavior of quinolone resistance genes in excess activated sludge during vermicomposting were studied with reactors introduced with Eisenia fetida for three different densities. The substrate pile without earthworms was operated as control in parallel. The results showed that earthworms could significantly reduce the absolute abundance of quinolone resistance genes in the excess sludge, with a reduction ratio of 85.6-100% for qnr A and 92.3-95.3% for qnr S, respectively (p < 0.05). For microbial profiles, both the dehydrogenase activity and the abundance of microbes (16S rDNA) revealed a distinct decreasing trend after 7 days from the start of the experiment; however, the bacterial diversity in the final products seemed to be enriched with the emergence of the uncultured Flavobacteriales bacterium and uncultured Anaerolineaceae bacterium. Redundancy analysis revealed clearly that the qnr genes had positive correlations with the targeted indexes of microbial profiles, with the correlations with the bacterial abundance and dehydrogenase activity being more statistically significant than the bacterial diversity (p < 0.05). The results of this study suggested that earthworms could promote the attenuation of quinolone resistance genes in the excess sludge through lowering the bacterial abundance and activity, and the promotion effect could be enhanced by increasing the density of earthworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangyu Cui
- Graduate School of Engineering, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Fusheng Li
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan.
| | - Shuailei Li
- Graduate School of Natural Science and Technology, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ishiguro
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Yongfen Wei
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Toshiro Yamada
- Faculty of Engineering, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
| | - Xiaoyong Fu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Kui Huang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou 730070, China
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12
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Paul S, Das S, Raul P, Bhattacharya SS. Vermi-sanitization of toxic silk industry waste employing Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae: Substrate compatibility, nutrient enrichment and metal accumulation dynamics. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 266:267-274. [PMID: 29982047 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.06.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Detoxification of silk processing effluents and sludge (SPES) through composting approaches is a new idea. This study examined the biodegradation potential of two epigeic earthworms (Eisenia fetida and Eudrilus eugeniae) in different SPES and cow dung (CD) mixtures in comparison with composting. N, P, S, Fe and Mn availability significantly increased upon vermicomposting compared to aerobic composting. The alkaline pH of the feedstocks satisfactorily neutralized under vermicomposting. The Ca-K availability and cation exchange dynamics readily stabilized due to vermicomposting. Interestingly, Eisenia fetida exhibited greater adaptability towards the toxic SPES materials than Eudrilus eugeniae, which was accompanied by 60-70% reduction of Cd, Cr, Zn and Pb levels in Eisenia system, whereas metal accumulation ability of Eudrilus eugeniae was remarkable. Moreover, both the species equally contributed in augmentation of beneficial (N-fixing and P-solubilizing) microorganisms in the feedstocks. Overall, nutrient enrichment and sanitizing potency of vermitechnology was explicitly manifested in SPES + CD (1:1) combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarmistha Paul
- Soil and Agro Bio-engineering Lab, Department of Environmental Science, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784 028, India
| | - Subhasish Das
- Soil and Agro Bio-engineering Lab, Department of Environmental Science, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784 028, India
| | - Prasanta Raul
- Defense Research Laboratory (DRDO), Tezpur, Assam, India
| | - Satya Sundar Bhattacharya
- Soil and Agro Bio-engineering Lab, Department of Environmental Science, Tezpur University, Tezpur 784 028, India.
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13
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Bhat SA, Singh S, Singh J, Kumar S, Vig AP. Bioremediation and detoxification of industrial wastes by earthworms: Vermicompost as powerful crop nutrient in sustainable agriculture. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2018; 252:172-179. [PMID: 29321101 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Vermicompost is the final product of the vermicomposting process involving the collective action of earthworms and microbes. During this process, the waste is converted into useful manure by reducing the harmful effects of waste. Toxicity of industrial wastes is evaluated by plant bioassays viz. Allium cepa and Vicia faba test. These bioassays are sensitive and cost-effective for the monitoring of environmental contamination. The valorization potential of earthworms and their ability to detoxify heavy metals in industrial wastes is because of their strong metabolic system and involvement of earthworm gut microbes and chloragocyte cells. Most of the studies reported that the vermicompost produced from organic wastes contains higher amounts of humic substances, which plays a major role in growth of plants. The present article discusses the detoxification of industrial wastes by earthworms and the role of final vermicompost in plant growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | - Sharanpreet Singh
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | - Jaswinder Singh
- P.G. Department of Zoology, Khalsa College, Amritsar 143001, India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Division, National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nagpur 440020, India
| | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India.
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14
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Amelioration and degradation of pressmud and bagasse wastes using vermitechnology. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 243:1097-1104. [PMID: 28764116 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.07.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Revised: 07/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the amelioration of pressmud (PM) and bagasse (BG) wastes by the vermiremediation process. The wastes were spiked with cattle dung (CD) in different concentrations to find out the best proportion supporting maximum earthworm growth and nutrients availability. The highest growth rate was observed in PMBG50 (282.2mg/d/worm) feed mixture. Response surface design of earthworm growth parameters enumerated best concentration of wastes in CD with maximum value of 21.81% for earthworm number, 30.86% for earthworm weight, 27.09% for cocoons, 29.71% for hatchlings and 34.0% for hatchlings weight. Vermicomposting enhanced nutrient parameters like pH (6-8%), total kjeldahl nitrogen (19-48%), total phosphorus (9-67%), total calcium (13-111%), while decrease in total organic carbon (14-32%), electrical conductivity (21-30%), C:N ratio (36-51%), total potassium (9-19%) and total sodium (3-21%). Heavy metals in the final products were found to be under safe limits. SEM micrographs were more fragmented which indicated maturity and stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India
| | | | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, India.
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15
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Instrumental characterization of organic wastes for evaluation of vermicompost maturity. J Anal Sci Technol 2017. [DOI: 10.1186/s40543-017-0112-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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16
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Role of Jatropha curcas Deoiled Cake as Substrate for the Production of Cellulases and Xylanase and Additive in Vermicomposting of Kitchen Waste. JOURNAL OF PURE AND APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.22207/jpam.10.4.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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17
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Genotoxicity reduction in bagasse waste of sugar industry by earthworm technology. SPRINGERPLUS 2016; 5:1186. [PMID: 27516924 PMCID: PMC4963344 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-2882-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to assess the genotoxicity reduction in post vermicompost feed mixtures of bagasse (B) waste using earthworm Eisenia fetida. The genotoxicity of bagasse waste was determined by using Allium cepa root chromosomal aberration assay. Bagasse was amended with cattle dung in different proportions [0:100 (B0) 25:75 (B25), 50:50 (B50), 75:25 (B75) and 100:0 (B100)] on dry weight basis. Genotoxic effects of initial and post vermicompost bagasse extracts were analysed on the root tips cells of Allium cepa. Root length and mitotic index (MI) was found to be increased in post vermicompost extracts when compared to initial bagasse waste. The maximum percent increase of root length was observed in the B50 bagasse extract (96.60 %) and the maximum MI was observed in B100 mixture (14.20 ± 0.60) 6 h treatment which was similar to the control. Genotoxicity analysis of post vermicompost extracts of bagasse revealed a 21-44 % decline in the aberration frequencies and the maximum reduction was found in B75 extract (44.50 %). The increase in root length and mitotic index, as well as decrease in chromosomal aberrations indicates that E. fetida has the ability to reduce the genotoxicity of the bagasse waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
| | - Jaswinder Singh
- PG Department of Zoology, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab India
| | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab 143005 India
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18
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Management of Sugar Industrial Wastes through Vermitechnology. INTERNATIONAL LETTERS OF NATURAL SCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.56431/p-jh3zmh] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
The present paper discusses the role of earthworms in recycling of sugar industrial wastes. The wastes generated from sugar industry are pressmud, bagasse, bagasse fly ash, sugar cane trash, sugar beet mud, sugar beet pulp, molasses etc. These wastes when mixed with other organic substrates become ideal mixtures for growth of earthworms. These wastes if stored in open field’s causes contamination in the environment and may cause several diseases in public health. But the governments have been unable to tackle the menace of solid waste pollution due to dearth of appropriate technologies, finance and space. Therefore, environment friendly and cost effective technologies for nutrient recycling or remediation of wastes are being advocated as an alternative means for conserving and replenishing natural resources of the ecosystems. Vermicomposting is one such technology that synergises microbial degradation with earthworm’s activity for reducing, reusing and recycling waste materials in a shorter span of time. Earthworm technology can convert sugar industrial wastes into valuable fertilizing material. The final product (vermicompost) produced during the process of vermicomposting is nutrient rich organic fertilizer with plant available nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. In the present study an attempt has been made to document the role of earthworms in reuse of sugar industry waste.
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19
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Management of Sugar Industrial Wastes through Vermitechnology. INTERNATIONAL LETTERS OF NATURAL SCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.18052/www.scipress.com/ilns.55.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The present paper discusses the role of earthworms in recycling of sugar industrial wastes. The wastes generated from sugar industry are pressmud, bagasse, bagasse fly ash, sugar cane trash, sugar beet mud, sugar beet pulp, molasses etc. These wastes when mixed with other organic substrates become ideal mixtures for growth of earthworms. These wastes if stored in open field’s causes contamination in the environment and may cause several diseases in public health. But the governments have been unable to tackle the menace of solid waste pollution due to dearth of appropriate technologies, finance and space. Therefore, environment friendly and cost effective technologies for nutrient recycling or remediation of wastes are being advocated as an alternative means for conserving and replenishing natural resources of the ecosystems. Vermicomposting is one such technology that synergises microbial degradation with earthworm’s activity for reducing, reusing and recycling waste materials in a shorter span of time. Earthworm technology can convert sugar industrial wastes into valuable fertilizing material. The final product (vermicompost) produced during the process of vermicomposting is nutrient rich organic fertilizer with plant available nutrients such as nitrogen, potassium, calcium and phosphorus. In the present study an attempt has been made to document the role of earthworms in reuse of sugar industry waste.
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20
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Datta S, Singh J, Singh S, Singh J. Earthworms, pesticides and sustainable agriculture: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:8227-8243. [PMID: 26951221 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6375-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/29/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to generate awareness and understand the importance of earthworms in sustainable agriculture and effect of pesticides on their action. The natural resources are finite and highly prone to degradation by the misuse of land and mismanagement of soil. The world is in utter need of a healthy ecosystem that provides with fertile soil, clean water, food and other natural resources. Anthropogenic activities have led to an increased contamination of land. The intensification of industrial and agricultural practices chiefly the utilization of pesticides has in almost every way made our natural resources concave. Earthworms help in a number of tasks that support many ecosystem services that favor agrosystem sustainability but are degraded by exhaustive practices such as the use of pesticides. The present review assesses the response of earthworm toward the pesticides and also evaluates the relationship between earthworm activity and plant growth. We strictly need to refresh and rethink on the policies and norms devised by us on sustainable ecology. In an equivalent way, the natural resources should be utilized and further, essential ways for betterment of present and future livelihood should be sought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivika Datta
- School of Biotechnology and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Joginder Singh
- School of Biotechnology and Biosciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | | | - Jaswinder Singh
- Department of Zoology, Khalsa College Amritsar, Punjab, India.
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21
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Xie D, Wu W, Hao X, Jiang D, Li X, Bai L. Vermicomposting of sludge from animal wastewater treatment plant mixed with cow dung or swine manure using Eisenia fetida. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:7767-7775. [PMID: 26755173 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5928-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Vermicomposting of animal wastewater treatment plant sludge (S) mixed with cow dung (CD) or swine manure (SM) employing Eisenia fetida was tested. The numbers, weights, clitellum development, and cocoon production were monitored for 60 days at a detecting interval of 15 days. The results indicated that 100 % of the sludge can be the suitable food for growth and fecundity of E. fetida, while addition of CD or SM in sludge significantly (P < 0.05) increased the worm biomass and reproduction. The sludge amended with 40 % SM can be a great medium for the growth of E. fetida, and the sludge amended with 40 % CD can be a suitable medium for the fecundity of E. fetida. The addition of CD in sludge provided a better environment for the fecundity of earthworm than SM did. Moreover, vermicomposts obtained in the study had lower pH value, lower total organic carbon (TOC), lower NH4 (+)-N, lower C/N ratio, higher total available phosphorous (TAP) contents, optimal stability, and maturity. NH4 (+)-N, pH and TAP of the initial mixtures explained high earthworm growth. The results provided the theory basic both for management of animal wastes and the production of earthworm proteins using E. fetida.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Xie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Weibing Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Xiaoxia Hao
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Dongmei Jiang
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Xuewei Li
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Lin Bai
- Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Sichuan, 611130, China.
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22
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Fu X, Cui G, Huang K, Chen X, Li F, Zhang X, Li F. Earthworms facilitate the stabilization of pelletized dewatered sludge through shaping microbial biomass and activity and community. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:4522-4530. [PMID: 26514568 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5659-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effect of earthworms on microbial features during vermicomposting of pelletized dewatered sludge (PDS) was investigated through comparing two degradation systems with and without earthworm E isenia fetida involvement. After 60 days of experimentation, a relatively stable product with low organic matter and high nitrate and phosphorous was harvested when the earthworms were involved. During the process, earthworms could enhance microbial activity and biomass at the initial stage and thus accelerating the rapid decomposition of PDS. The end products of vermicomposting allowed the lower values of bacterial and eukaryotic densities comparison with those of no earthworm addition. In addition, the presence of earthworms modified the bacterial and fungal diversity, making the disappearances of some pathogens and specific decomposing bacteria of recalcitrant substrates in the vermicomposting process. This study evidences that earthworms can facilitate the stabilization of PDS through modifying microbial activity and number and community during vermicomposting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Fu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
| | - Guangyu Cui
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Kui Huang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China.
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan.
| | - Xuemin Chen
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Fusheng Li
- River Basin Research Center, Gifu University, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu, 501-1193, Japan
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Fei Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Lanzhou Jiaotong University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
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23
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Effect on Growth of Earthworm and Chemical Parameters During Vermicomposting of Pressmud Sludge Mixed with Cattle Dung Mixture. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.proenv.2016.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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24
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Vermistabilization of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L) waste produced from sugar factory using earthworm Eisenia fetida: Genotoxic assessment by Allium cepa test. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:11236-11254. [PMID: 25794577 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4302-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, sugar beet mud (SBM) and pulp (SBP) produced as a waste by-products of the sugar industry were mixed with cattle dung (CD) at different ratios on dry weight basis for vermicomposting with Eisenia fetida. Minimum mortality and highest population of worms were observed in 20:80 (SBM20) mixture of SBM and 10:90 (SBP10) ratios. However, increased percentages of wastes significantly affected the growth and fecundity of worms. Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, sodium, increased from initial feed mixture to final products (i.e., vermicompost), while organic carbon (OC), C:N ratio and electrical conductivity (EC) declined in all the products of vermicomposting. Although there was an increase in the contents of all the heavy metals except copper, chromium, and iron in SBM, the contents were less than the international standards for compost which indicates that the vermicompost can be used in the fields without any ill effects on the soil. Allium cepa root chromosomal aberration assay was used to evaluate the genotoxicity of pre- and post-vermicomposted SBM to understand the effect of vermicomposting on the reduction of toxicity. Genotoxicity analysis of post-vermicomposted samples of SBM revealed 18-75% decline in the aberration frequencies. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was recorded to identify the changes in texture in the control and vermicomposted samples. The vermicomposted mixtures in the presence of earthworms confirm more numerous surface irregularities that prove to be good manure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India,
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25
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Xing M, Lv B, Zhao C, Yang J. Towards understanding the effects of additives on the vermicomposting of sewage sludge. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:4644-4653. [PMID: 25328094 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-3708-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This work evaluated the effects of additives on the chemical properties of the final products (vermicompost) from vermicomposting of sewage sludge and the adaptable characteristics of Eisenia fetida during the process. An experimental design with different ratios of sewage sludge and the additives (cattle dung or pig manure) was conducted. The results showed that the vermicomposting reduced total organic carbon and the quotient of total organic carbon to total nitrogen (C/N ratio) of the initial mixtures and enhanced the stability and agronomical value of the final products. Notably, principal component analysis indicated that the additives had significant effects on the characteristics of the vermicomposts. Moreover, the vermibeds containing cattle dung displayed a better earthworm growth and reproduction than those with pig manure. Additionally, redundancy analysis demonstrated that electrical conductivity (EC), pH, and C/N ratio played crucial roles on earthworm growth and reproduction. In all, the additives with high C/N ratio, pH buffering capacity, and low EC are recommended to be used for vermicomposting of sewage sludge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyan Xing
- Institute of Biofilm Technology, Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
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26
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Potential utilization of bagasse as feed material for earthworm Eisenia fetida and production of vermicompost. SPRINGERPLUS 2015; 4:11. [PMID: 25625035 PMCID: PMC4302158 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-014-0780-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the present work bagasse (B) i.e waste of the sugar industry, was fed to Eisenia fetida with cattle dung (CD) support as feed material at various ratios (waste: CD) of 0:100 (B0), 25:75 (B25), 50:50 (B50), 75:25 (B75) and 100:0 (B100) on dry weight basis. Co-composting with cattle dung helped to improve their acceptability for E. fetida and also improved physico-chemical characteristics. Best appropriate ratio for survival, maximum growth and population buildup of E. fetida was determined by observing population buildup, growth rate, biomass, mortality and cocoon formation. Minimum mortality and highest population size of worms was observed in 50:50 (B50) ratio. Increasing concentrations of wastes significantly affected the growth and reproduction of worms. Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and sodium increased from pre-vermicompost to post-vermicompost, while organic carbon, and C:N ratio decreased in all the end products of post-vermicomposting. Heavy metals decreased significantly from initial except zinc, iron and manganese which increased significantly. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to recognize the changes in texture in the pre and post-vermicomposted samples. The post-vermicomposted ratios in the presence of earthworms validate more surface changes that prove to be good manure. The results observed from the present study indicated that the earthworm E. fetida was able to change bagasse waste into nutrient-rich manure and thus play a major role in industrial waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Science, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
| | - Jaswinder Singh
- Department of Zoology, Khalsa College Amritsar, Punjab, India
| | - Adarsh Pal Vig
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Science, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
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Singh J, Kaur A, Vig AP. Bioremediation of Distillery Sludge into Soil-Enriching Material Through Vermicomposting with the Help of Eisenia fetida. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2014; 174:1403-1419. [DOI: 10.1007/s12010-014-1116-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Bhat SA, Singh J, Vig AP. Genotoxic assessment and optimization of pressmud with the help of exotic earthworm Eisenia fetida. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 21:8112-8123. [PMID: 24671397 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-014-2758-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Genotoxicity of pressmud (PM) to Allium cepa was investigated to assess its toxic potential and to elucidate the effect of vermicomposting to reduce its toxicity. The PM produced as a waste by product of the sugar cane industry was mixed with cow dung (CD) at different ratios of 0:100 (V₀), 25:75 (V₂₅), 50:50 (V₅₀), 75:25 (V₇₅) and 100:0 (V100) (PM:CD) on a dry weight basis for vermicomposting with Eisenia fetida. Different concentrations of 100% PM sludge extract (10%, 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100%) and negative control (distilled water) and positive control (maleic hydrazide) were analyzed with A. cepa assay to evaluate frequency of chromosomal aberrations before and after vermicomposting. Percent aberration was greatest (30.8%) after exposure to 100% PM extract after 6 h but was reduced to 20.3% after vermicomposting. Exposure to the extract induced c-mitosis, delayed anaphase, laggards, stickiness and vagrant aberrations. Microscopic examination of root meristem exposed to PM sludge extract showed significant inhibition of mitotic index. Also, the mitotic index decreased with increase in concentration of PM sludge extract. After vermicomposting the mitotic index was increased. However, increasing percentages of PM significantly affected the growth and fecundity of the worms and maximum population size was reached in the 25:75 (PM:CD) feed mixture. Nitrogen, phosphorus, sodium, electrical conductivity (EC) and pH increased from initial feed mixture to the final products (i.e., vermicompost), while organic carbon, C/N ratio and potassium declined in all products of vermicomposting. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was recorded to identify the changes in texture with numerous surface irregularities and high porosity that proves to be good vermicompost manure. It could be concluded that vermicomposting could be an important tool to reduce the toxicity of PM as evidenced by the results of genotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sartaj Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Botanical and Environmental Sciences, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India
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