Optimization of Vermicomposting of Cow Manure and Shredded Paper Using Eudrilus eugeniae and Response Surface Methodology Mohamad Asrol Kalam, Nur Husna Nasuha, S. Y. Nur Sahtasha
Faculty of Sustainable Agriculture, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Sandakan, 90509 Sabah, Malaysia
Abstract
Efficient livestock waste management is essential to reduce environmental impacts while enhancing agricultural sustainability. This study optimized the vermicomposting of cow manure (CM) with shredded paper (SW) using the African Nightcrawler (Eudrilus eugeniae) as a decomposer. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate the effects of substrate ratio (CM:SW) and stocking density on vermicomposting efficiency and earthworm biomass production. Experimental treatments were conducted in controlled reactors across 20 runs using a Central Composite Design. Results indicated that moderate CM:SW ratios (12-20%) combined with stocking densities between 20-30 worms/kg substrate enhanced biomass yield and compost quality. However, extreme levels of substrate ratio or stocking density reduced efficiency, highlighting the importance of balance between nutrient availability and structural aeration. While ANOVA analysis showed that single factors were not statistically significant, contour plots revealed synergistic interactions that promoted higher biomass output. The findings suggest that optimized vermicomposting parameters can accelerate decomposition, improve nutrient recycling, and produce high-quality organic fertilizer, offering a practical solution for sustainable livestock waste management.
