Estimation of zoomass productivity of epigeic earthworm species Eudrilus eugeniae fed with temple flower waste and cow dung mixtures.

Solid waste generation is a major problem in developed and developing countries considering its obnoxious impact on the environment. India is severely affected by improper waste collection at source and mis-management and various cultural and social practices practiced since the time immemorial. Especially in Indian temples various types of pooja offerings generate wastes such as flowers, fruits, clothes, leaves, coconuts and other food wastes. Among all wastes, flower waste predominates inside the temple. While improper disposal of solid waste dumping mostly pollutes the surrounding soil and water, unwanted waste generation and its harmful by products can be controlled using appropriate waste treatment technologies. Vermicomposting is one such biologically driven waste treatment method that was found effective and efficient for organic wastes. The present study deals with analysis of temple flower waste mixed with different ratios of cow dung composted by the earthworm Eudrilus eugenia to assess their growth rate and zoomass gain. The highest increase in the zoomass was found in the reactors with 100% cow dung, while 25% flower waste + 75 % cow dung appears to be the best option for the temples.