Potentiality of Earthworms for Waste Management and in Other Uses – A Review

Scientific investigations have established the viability of using earthworms as a treatment technique for numerous waste streams besides producing organic fertilizers. Vermicomposting results in the bioconversion of the waste stream into two useful products, earthworm biomass and vermicompost. The former can be used as a protein source whereas vermicompost is considered as an excellent product since it is homogenous, has desirable aesthetics, has reduced level of contaminates, has plant growth hormones, higher level of soil enzymes, greater microbial population and tends to hold more nutrients over a longer period without adversely impacting the environment. Earthworm while ingest organic waste and soil, consume heavy metals through their intestine as well as through their skin, wherefore concentrating heavy metals in their body. The present paper review the current state of knowledge on biology and species of earthworm, vermiculturing, earthworm interaction with microflora; and on the use of earthworms for waste stabilization, vermicompost production for plant growth and heavy metal accumulation. [The Journal of American Science. 2005;1(1):4-16].