Zainal Muktamar
Department of Soil Science, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Nanik Setyowati
Department of Crop Production, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Anandyawati Anandyawati
Department of Soil Science, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Fahrurrozi Fahrurrozi
Department of Crop Production, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Sigit Sudjatmiko
Department of Crop Production, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Mohammad Chozin
Department of Crop Production, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Kartika Utami
Department of Soil Science, University of Bengkulu, Indonesia
Keywords: Agricultural residues, Nutrient, Substrate, Vermicast, Vermicomposting
Abstract
Vermicompost is commonly used as a source of plant nutrients in sustainable agriculture. Several studies have shown that its quality is primarily determined by the substrate type and earthworm species involved, as both factors directly influence the nutrient composition. Therefore, this study aims to determine the yield and quality of vermicompost derived from chicken waste, rice straw, and Melastoma biomass using Lumbricus rubellus and Perionyx excavatus earthworms. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 2 factors was used, namely substrate type (chicken waste, rice straw, and Melastoma) and earthworm species (Lumbricus rubellus and Perionyx excavatus), with each treatment combination replicated 3 times. Vermicomposting process was carried out for 8 weeks at room temperature, with moisture maintained as needed. After incubation, vermicompost was sieved and analyzed for nutrient content and yield. The results revealed that vermicompost derived from chicken waste had the highest content of phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and copper (Cu), while Melastoma-based vermicompost exhibited the highest total nitrogen (N) and the lowest C/N ratio. However, no significant differences were observed in organic carbon (C), magnesium (Mg), and iron (Fe) across the different substrates. Lumbricus rubellus and Perionyx excavatus produced comparable vermicompost yields, pH levels, and nutrient content, suggesting similar productivity. These results emphasize that the yield and quality of vermicompost are strongly influenced by substrate type, indicating its significance in promoting sustainable agriculture.
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