BIOTECHNOLOGY - V. H. Herasymenko - 2006

Part II. Special Biotechnologies

Chapter 23. BIOTECHNOLOGY OF ORGANIC WASTE UTILIZATION BY VERMICULTURE

23.5. CONDITIONS FOR MAINTAINING EARTHWORMS IN BEDS

Once the beds are formed and stocked with the breeding stock, it is essential to regularly monitor the Physical and Chemical parameters of the feed (Temperature, moisture content, acidity, and the 50-worm test) and observe the condition of the earthworm population.

It is recommended to apply a new batch of feed only 25–35 days after introducing the breeding stock. Afterward, earthworms are fed regularly, but only after they have processed the previous feed: every 7–10 days in spring, summer, and autumn, and every 25–35 days in winter. Every new batch of feed must undergo Fermentation and a quality check, including the 50-worm test.

New feed is applied in a 5–7 cm layer, not across the entire surface of the bed at once, but initially covering an area of 1.4–1.6 m² (or 70–80%), while the remaining 0.4–0.6 m² of the bed surface is left vacant to serve as a safety zone in case

the new feed fails to meet the required standards. Earthworms will migrate to this area to avoid unsuitable feed. If no worm migration is observed within 24 hours, this remaining section of the bed should also be filled with feed.

The feeding schedule must be strictly followed alongside monitoring for nutritional adequacy; insufficient feed causes earthworms to crawl out of the beds, whereas overfeeding impedes gas exchange and Respiration.

If earthworm activity is low and feed consumption is poor, it is recommended to loosen the substrate using blunt pitchforks without mixing its different layers. This should be done systematically 1–2 times a week to improve bed aeration, facilitate the release of harmful gases, and ensure a fresh air supply to the culture. Poor aeration causes earthworms to suffocate and die, as they breathe through their entire body surface.

To maintain optimal moisture levels, the beds should be periodically moistened. This is best done in the morning and evening to prevent sharp thermal shocks between the Water and the bed contents. During periods of intense solar radiation, beds should be covered with water-soaked mats.

Water used for moistening earthworm beds must meet specific requirements. Well, river, canal, or borehole water is suitable. It is mandatory to perform a chemical Analysis of the water for toxic substances or conduct a biological test using fish. The fish is placed in a tank filled with the water intended for bed irrigation; if the fish survives, the water is safe for use.