Population dynamics of microbes in pressmud compost as influenced by different methods of composting

Abstract

Composting is one of the cheapest methods of utilizing the agro-industrial wastes to reduce pollution. Population dynamics of microbes during the process of composting changes with time and it is an indication of compost maturity. Composting of pressmud takes very long time as compared to other wastes as it contains very wide C:N ratio. Hence, attempts are needed to study the dynamics of microorganisms while composting. In this direction, an attempt is made in this study to know the changes in the population dynamics of microbes as influenced by different methods of composting with or without microbial culture. Results of this study indicates that there is progressive increase in the population of actinomycetes, N-fixers and Psoulblisers up to 60 days after composting and there is decreasing trend after 60 days after composting. Irrespective of the stages of composting higher number of actinomycetes, N-fixers and P-soulblisers were recorded in the NADEP method of composting with addition of compost culture as well as with enrichment followed by Japan method of composting with enrichment and inoculation.