Efficacy and significance of verrmicompost in modern Agriculture to protect soil against the destructive chemical fertilizer under climate change scenario
Changing climate undermines global food security by adversely affecting crop production. Biological agriculture, or organic farming, serves as an alternative to traditional methods that depend heavily on synthetic inputs. Earthworms are found almost all over the world, being absent only from regions where soil is sandy and deficient in humus. They are also not found in mountain regions with scanty and poor soil. They also do not prefer very clayey/acidic soils. They live usually in the upper layers of slightly damp soil, lawns and gardens, upto the depth of 12 to 18 feet in burrows for protection against the enemies and unfavorable conditions of climate. Vermicomposting is the term given to the process of conversion of biodegradable matter by earthworms into vermicast. Earthworms are nocturnal creatures, lying in their burrows during the day, but coming out at night promoted by hunger and love. They feed on dead leaves and other organic material. Vermicompost is proving to be highly nutritive organic fertilizer and more powerful growth promoter over the conventional composts against the destructive chemical fertilizers which destroyed the soil properties and natural fertility over the years. This compost is rich in NKP (nitrogen 2-3%, potassium 1.85-2.25% and phosphorus 1.55-2.25%), micronutrients, beneficial soil microbes and also contain plant growth hormones & enzymes. It is scientifically proving as miracle growth promoter and plant protector from pests and diseases. The study explained the ecology of earthworm and the important contribution and roles placed by the earthworm in Rahim Yar Khan ecosystem.
Keywords: Earthworm, vermicomposting, fertilizer
