Caractérisation morphologique et anatomique et performances en vermiculture des vers de terre épigés du Burundi
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Date
2025-04
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
UB, FS
Abstract
The study of the biological compatibility of earthworms is essential for the development of vermicomposting. Species compatible with vermicomposting are epigeic, ubiquitous, small in size, and reproduce rapidly (2–3 times the initial population within 30–45 days) at temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 °C on various organic substrates. They must also induce physicochemical transformations that result in vermicompost meeting international standards within 2 to 3 months.
To support the development of vermiculture and vermicomposting by identifying epigeic earthworms in Burundi that are biologically compatible with this technology, we aimed to: (i) Morphologically and anatomically characterize epigeic earthworm species that demonstrate suitable body mass, survival rates, and population growth within 4 to 6 weeks of laboratory culture on sugarcane and palm oil residues at 18–32 °C; (ii) Identify those capable of inducing physicochemical changes compatible with the vermicomposting process; (iii) Determine which species can produce physicochemically compliant vermicompost within 60 days using sugarcane residues, palm oil waste, cow manure, and rumen content.
Adult epigeic earthworms were collected from eight natural regions of Burundi and analyzed morphologically and anatomically in the laboratory and, too morpho - species were identified, including Eudrilus eugeniae, found in 75% of the studied regions, and two others specific to Kumoso and Buyogoma. These earthworms induced physicochemical transformations in substrates (sugarcane and palm oil residues), altering parameters such as pH, salinity, electrical conductivity, and chloride levels, and producing vermicompost enriched with macronutrients, micronutrients, and heavy metals.
The results of this study demonstrate that earthworms from various regions of Burundi are biologically suited for vermicomposting and can efficiently convert sugarcane and palm oil waste into high-quality vermicompost. These findings contribute to advancing vermicomposting technology and other vermi-based innovations in Burundi.
Description
Mémoire Présenté pour l’obtention du Diplôme de master en Sciences et Gestion Intégrée de l’Environnement Spécialité : Génie de l’environnement