Effect of microbial consortia on the composting of pig manure

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the effect of microbes on the composting of pig manure. Geotrichum candidum, Yarrowia lipolytica, Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus stearothermophilus and Nocardia sp. were isolated from fresh pig feces. Fifteen different combinations of these microorganisms were added to a mixture of pig manure and sawdust for composting. An orthogonal, fractional factorial experimental design consisting of five factors and two levels was used. Statistical analysis indicated that Geotrichum candidum plus Bacillus stearothermophilus was, the most effective combination. The results indicated that the addition of microbes to feces raised the maximum temperature of composting from 67-72oC and elevated the available nutrients by 9.5%. © 2011 Medwell Journals.