Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! What species of worms can be used for VermiComposting? They also adapt well when placed inside a worm composting bin or worm bed. It is very important that this species of earthworm is used for vermicomposting, so do not pick up earthworms in the environment and put them in your worm bin. Of the seven species, only one is typically used in North America: Eisenia fetida (one common name is red wiggler). There are two popular breeds of worms used for vermicomposting. Noticing later that there were three different types of worms, my question is will different types of worms co-habitate?” ~ Terry Tyson. Your earthworms need to be shielded from light and rain, so be sure to cover the bin with something: a lid, burlap sacks, cardboard, loose plastic, plywood, etc. It’s a great way to use up your kitchen scraps and the kids will enjoy helping out with the worm farm. The same thing that connects it to every corner of North Carolina: NC State Extension. Earthworms (Crassiclitellata) are terrestrial oligochaetes that usually live in the soil. [2] Note: If you’re vermicomposting correctly, excess liquid will not accumulate in the bin. That’s why this method of vermicomposting is also called red worm composting. Not at all. This interesting and attractive alternative to regular composting turns organic waste into a substrate that can be used as a soil amendment and as a growing medium for use … What species of earthworms are used for vermicomposting? It’s very common for the new vermicomposter to ask “What kind of worms can I use in my worm bin? Vermicomposting, the conversion of organic waste into vermicompost, is mediated by the combined action of earthworms and microorganisms. Vermicomposting has gained popularity in both industrial and domestic settings because, as compared with conventional composting, it provides a way to treat organic wastes more quickly. Your earthworms will survive at 32 – 95 degrees F (0 – 35 C) if they have at least 4 inches of bedding and you insulate the bin during colder months. You won’t find red wigglers in garden soil. What species of worms can be used for VermiComposting? It also contains microbes that help plants grow. Earthworms and Vermicomposting. Hi Terry, That is a good question, and provides me with the opportunity to talk about some of the different types of worms used for worm composting/farming, as well as those that are not ideally suited. (Optional) Read more about Rhonda’s professional activities: Curriculum Vitae. Commercially raised worms are usually of the epigeic type. They can be microscopic or several meters long. Most worm farms raise two main types of earthworm: Eisenia foetida and Lumbricus rubellis. 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Worms that feed on vegetable waste, compost, and organic bedding produce richer casting than those that feed on plain soil. Her book The Worm Farmer’s Handbook: Mid- to Large-Scale Vermicomposting for Farms, Businesses, Municipalities, Schools, and Institutions was selected to receive Choice Magazine’s (American Library Association) award for Outstanding Academic Title. A study (100 days duration) was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of an exotic earthworm species (epigeic—Eisenia foetida) for decomposition of different types of organic substrates (kitchen waste, agro-residues, institutional and industrial wastes including textile industry sludge and fibres) into valuable vermicompost… The CL2 has a 40‐ft by 30‐ft Worm Barn, an equipment shed, and a covered teaching shelter. If you don’t have a local supplier, you can order them on the Internet. Earthworm species used for vermiculture. Bouche14 proposed an ecological classification of earthworms into 3 generalised life forms: (i) epigeics, (ii) anecics and (iii) endogeics. Rhonda Sherman is an extension specialist in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University providing leadership for university outreach programs on solid waste management issues through the Cooperative Extension Service. They’re kind of all the same, right?” No. You won’t be able to tell the difference between Lumbricus rubellus and other worms, so it’s best to buy them. The type of worm most commonly used for vermicomposting is the red wiggler. She gives about 50 presentations annually and has authored over 65 publications on these topics. Vermicomposting is one of the oldest and effective disposal methods of organic waste using earthworms. Off all the earthworm types the epigeic worms are the only ones that can be used commercially in vermicomposting systems. More than 9,000 species of earthworms have been identified, yet only seven species are suitable for vermicomposting. Red earthworm species, like Eisenia foetida, and are most efficient in compost making. Table 1 gives the summary of the characteristics used to distinguish ecological types of earthworms. The ideal temperature for composting earthworms is 55 – 80 degrees F (13 – 27 C). According to reliable reports, most worm farms raise two main types of earthworm: Eisenia foetida and Lumbricus rubellis. Cooperative Extension prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status. There are nearly 3600 types of earthworms which are divided into burrowing and non-burrowing types. There are nearly 3600 types of earthworms which are divided into burrowing and non-burrowing types. Rhonda is the founder and director of a two‐acre Compost Learning Lab (CL2) at NC State’s 1,500-acre Lake Wheeler Road Field Laboratory. Both are referred to by a … Epigeic worms are typically used for vermicomposting (such as the Eisenia Fetida for example). of worms per day), you’ll have a steady supply of vermicompost for your garden. They’re kind of all the same, right?” No. It’s very common for the new vermicomposter to ask “What kind of worms can I use in my worm bin? It is a mesophilic process utilizing microorganisms and earthworms. Vermicomposting Vermicomposting is a quick, efficient way to convert kitchen scraps into a rich soil amendment using earthworms. People from Argentina, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Belgium, Canada, China, Dominican Republic, England, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Latvia, Mexico, Micronesia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Norway, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Turkey, Uganda, USA, and Zimbabwe have participated in this conference. Read our Commitment to Diversity | Read our Privacy Statement. Several worms of the epigeic kind are used in domestic and commercial … They do not have permanent burrows. Earthworms … If setting up the bin outdoors, be sure you can maintain temperatures of 55 – 80 degrees F (13 – 27 C) year-round. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. The types of worms involved in the formation of compost include earthworms, white worms, wrigglers, etc. Cooperative Extension, which staffs local offices in all 100 counties and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Vermicomposting is a type of composting in which certain species of earthworms are used to enhance the process of organic waste conversion and produce a better end-product. You can insulate your worm bin with blankets, straw, blue board or other material to keep it warm. Earthworms feeds the organic waste materials and passes it through their digestive system and gives out in a granular form (cocoons) … The red wiggler species (Eisenia fetida) … There are 26 types of composting and vermicomposting bins and areas for hands‐on training activities. Instead, purchase Eisenia fetida … No, there are over 9,000 species of earthworms, ranging in size from half an inch to 22 feet long. N.C. That’s why this method of vermicomposting is also called red worm composting. Here are a couple of the common epigeic varieties: Eisenia fetida (Also known as the red worm, red wiggler, manure worm, tiger worm, brandling worm) This is the most common variety sold and used … You may find redworms near compost, under rotting logs, and in other organic situations. The Blue Worm I’ve been raising Red Wiggler Worms and Mealworms for over 40 years. She has served on the Boards of numerous associations, including the US Composting Council. Buying Your Worms: Getting What You Pay For . of worms (1,000 individuals) to start a good-sized compost bin. Earthworms are reddish-brown in colour. Perionyx excavatus (Oligochaeta) is a vermicomposting earthworm of which little is known regarding its reproductive strategies. They are Perionyx excavatus (Indian blueworm), Eisenia fetida (Red worms), Eudrilus eugeniae (African night crawler). There are between 7000-9000 species of earthworms, but only about 7 of them are any good as composting worms types. metabolic rate from deep dwelling larger worms with less metabolic rate. Description The best species of worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) and redworms (Lumbricus rubellus) because they prefer a compost environment to plain soil and they are very easy to keep and maintain. Vermicomposting is increasing in popularity in households, schools, and businesses. Fall Is the Perfect Time to Start Composting! They live underground and depend on dead organic material. matter. There are nearly 3600 types of earthworms and they are mainly divided into two types: (1) burrowing; and (2) non-burrowing. These “decomposers” are the type of worm used in . Winning books were selected for their excellence in scholarship and presentation, the significance of their contribution to the field, and their value as important treatment of their subject. I specialize in Red Wigglers – worm composting. And of those, only 4 are readily available in the US. and with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Vermicompost is produced by a special type of composting in which certain species of earthworms are used to enhance the process of organic waste decomposition and produce a better compost. Epigeic Worms. Introduction. This interesting and attractive alternative to regular composting turns organic waste into a substrate that can be used as a soil amendment and as a growing medium for use in horticulture. The most common types of earthworms used for vermicomposting are brandling worms (Eisenia fetida) and redworms or red wigglers (Lumbricus rubellus). Different types of earthworm are living in our soil. Vermicomposting implies the use of various types of worms for formation of compost, so as to use it for agricultural purposes. Only seven species have been identified as suitable for vermicomposting. The best types of worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) and redworms (Lumbricus rubellus). E. fetida is certainly not the only epigeic worm, but it is the one most often used … NC State Extension is the largest outreach program at NC State University. There are approximately 3000 different types of earthworms. Instead, purchase Eisenia fetida from a worm grower. Send Explanation. [1] When these cultivated worms are used for compost formation, it is termed as "vermicomposting". Often found in aged manure piles, they generally … Earthworm species used for vermiculture. Worm bins can be located inside or outdoors, as a properly maintained bin does not produce odors. About vermicomposting earthworms… More than 9,000 species of earthworms have been identified, yet only seven species are suitable for vermicomposting. Rhonda’s areas of expertise are vermicomposting, composting, recycling and waste reduction. Rhonda has been active in local and national organizational development. Red earthworm species like Eisenia foetida and Eudrillus enginae … 3. The type of worm most commonly used for vermicomposting is the red wiggler. If you choose the right vermicomposting worm types and feed them regularly (about one-half pound (226.5) of food scraps per pound (453.5 gr.) Earthworms are a type of important segmented worms found in the soil. Vermiculture Technology: Earthworms, Organic Wastes, & Environmental Management, The Worm Farmer’s Handbook: Mid- to Large-Scale Vermicomposting for Farms, Businesses, Municipalities, Schools, and Institutions, The No-Till Market Garden, Rhonda Sherman & The Worm Farmer’s Handbook, The Urban Farm – Rhonda Sherman on Organically Recycling Through Vermicomposting, Food Chain Radio Show #1168: Employing Worms to Turn Garbage Into Gold, Digging in the Dirt: The Worm Farmer’s Handbook – Rhonda Sherman, The Definitive Guide to Vermicomposting, with Rhonda Sherman, author of The Worm Farmer’s Handbook, Living Permaculture National Public Radio Digs Into Worms, Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center, Vernon G. James Research & Extension Center, Entomology – Insect Biology and Management, Mountain Horticultural Crops Research and Extension Center, Weed Management in Nurseries, Landscapes & Christmas Trees. Information sourced from Card et al., 2004. Worms and vermicomposting bins don’t smell, so you can keep worms indoors year round. The problem is identifying them. Different types of earthworm are living in our soil. Vermicomposting, the conversion of organic waste into vermicompost, is mediated by the combined action of earthworms and microorganisms. The best types of worms for vermicomposting are: Red Wigglers – Eisenia fetida Redworms – Lumbricus rubellus These two types of worms are preferred for the compost bin … Of the seven species, only one is typically used in North America: Eisenia fetida (one common name is red wiggler). Epigeic worms are typically used for vermicomposting (such as the Eisenia Fetida for example). vermicomposting. Subscribe By Email chevron_right. These worms are commonly used to produce vermicompost, … She co-founded the Alliance for Integrated Resource Management (1988), Van Buren County Citizens for Recycling (1989), Source-Separated Compost & Organics Recycling Association (1993), National Backyard Composting Program (1994), and the North Carolina Composting Council (2008). The They are the Lumbricus rubella and the Eisenia foetid. These invertebrates constitute the largest ... 2. Want to see which lists are available? Rhonda co-edited the 600-page book titled Vermiculture Technology: Earthworms, Organic Wastes, & Environmental Management. You can buy them at many garden centers in your area. North Carolina citizens each year through local centers in the state's 100 counties Description The best species of worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) and redworms (Lumbricus rubellus) because they … I’ve raised African Night Crawlers, Canadian Night Crawlers and Gray Night Crawlers. Red earthworm species, like Eisenia foetida, and are most efficient in compost making. In manure composting, it also generates products that have lower salinity levels. Vermicomposting Earthworms use … They’re the type that likes to settle on top soil (does less burrowing), and likes to eat and live … These two … NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to form a strategic partnership called N.C. It is a mesophilic process utilizing microorganisms and earthworms. There should also be some way to drain excess liquid from the bin (drill holes in the bottom). They can also be created using concrete blocks or other building materials. Can Any Type of Earthworm be Used for Vermicomposting? Extension Solid Waste Specialist (vermicomposting, composting, recycling), N.C. Worm bins can be kept indoors or outdoors in the shade. Read more articles about Vermicomposting. She holds degrees in Environmental Studies and Urban/Regional Planning, and Environmental Resources Analysis with an emphasis in solid waste management. Cooperative Extension has offices in every county, Markets for Vermiculture and Vermicomposting Operations, Vermicomposting for Business, Farms, Institutions & Municipalities, Agenda for 20th Vermiculture Conference (held in 2019), Potential Markets for Vermiculture and Vermicomposting Operations, Wormy FACTS and Interesting Tidbits (By Rhonda Sherman). Considered a leading authority on vermicomposting, Rhonda has received requests for information from people in 118 countries. Among the vast community of earthworms only very few species can be used for vermicompost production. You can also … 1. One species, Eisenia fetida, … The non … Photo showing six different types of worm bins. These two species make great worms for the compost bin because they prefer a compost environment to plain soil, and they are very easy to keep. Based in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, we reach millions of Vermicomposting is a type of composting in which certain species of earthworms are used to enhance the process of organic waste conversion and produce a better end-product. Of the seven species, only one is typically used in North America: Eisenia fetida (one common name is red wiggler). Eisenia fetida and Eisenia andrei … 3. Worm bins may be purchased from commercial manufacturers (like the ones in the photo below) or constructed from wood or plastic storage bins. Vermicompost is richer in essential plant nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium than traditional compost. There are between 7000-9000 species of earthworms, but only about 7 of them are any good as composting worms types… The best types of worms for vermicomposting are red wigglers (Eisenia fetida) and redworms (Lumbricus rubellus). She has taught composting and vermicomposting in Guyana, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, Chile, Italy, Canada, Mexico, and throughout the United States. They’re the type that likes to settle on top soil (does less burrowing), and likes to eat and live off of organic scraps. It is easy and inexpensive to set up worm bins in any of those settings. What made it so helpful? These worms are commonly used to produce vermicompost, as well as for fish bait. Make sure that oxygen can flow into the bin (e.g., drill air holes). The types of worms involved in the formation of compost include earthworms, white worms, wrigglers, etc. What separates NC State University from other schools? Although castings may be waste to the worms, they are a rich treasure for gardeners. Rhonda organizes the world’s only annual conference on large‐scale commercial vermicomposting (her 20th Annual Vermiculture Conference was in 2019). Not at all. Vermicompost worms break down organic matter, such as kitchen scraps, into waste products called castings. Sign up for our newsletter. Among the vast community of earthworms only very few species can be used for vermicompost production. Vermicomposting is a mesophilic process utilizing microorganisms and earthworms. They are Perionyx excavatus (Indian blueworm), Eisenia fetida (Red worms), Eudrilus eugeniae (African night crawler). Learn More About NC State Extension, We have several topic based e-mail newsletters that are sent out periodically when we have new information to share. Vermiculture is a method of cultivating earthworms which focuses on increasing the worm biomass (the dry weight of an earthworm … … Vermicompost production using epigeic compost worms such as Eisenia foetida, Lumbricus rubellus and Eudrilus eugeniae can be enhanced effectively by supplementing the organic wastes used for … It is very important that this species of earthworm is used for vermicomposting, so do not pick up earthworms in the environment and put them in your worm bin. Working hand-in-hand with our partners at N.C. A&T and 101 local governments, we conduct groundbreaking research that addresses real-world issues in communities across the state. It takes one pound (453.5 gr.)