Evaluation of Different Microbial Consortia for Decomposing Different Wastes: An In vitro and In vivo Study Approach

Abstract

Soil microbes play a central role in the decomposition of organic residue in soils, and the rate of this turnover can be increased by microbial enhancement using microbially enhanced compost extracts. If not managed properly, agricultural solid waste can cause environmental and health problems, including pollution and respiratory issues. Recycling these wastes through composting is a viable method to enhance soil health, reduce environmental impact and mitigate climate change. The present study aimed to evaluate different microbial consortia for decomposing different wastes. Different bio-wastes used for decomposition were collected from the located area from an adjoining farmer's field and brought to the laboratory to conduct series of experiments. Decomposing cultures like Trichoderma harzianum (T.h), Trichoderma koningii (T.k), Pseudomonas fluorescence (P.f), Basillus subtilis (B.s), Aspergillus niger (A.n), Aspergillus flavus (A.f), and Pseudomonas chrysogenum (P.c) were obtained from different sources like farmer’s pit area, decomposting site, forest dump area, etc. The results demonstrated that microbial consortia, particularly the T7 consortium (T. h. + T. k + P. c+ A. f. + A. n.+ B. s. + P. f), significantly accelerated the composting process, reducing decomposition time and improving compost maturity compared to single microbial cultures and un-inoculated controls. Efficient composting helps in waste management and improves soil quality and sustainable Agriculture. Key observations over a 105-day composting period included changes in texture, total days required, moisture content and pH. Microbial treatments also led to favorable changes in moisture retention, pH stabilization towards neutral or slightly alkaline conditions, and enhanced nutrient content, particularly with Trichoderma harzianum and Pseudomonas fluoroescens. The study reveals that the use of efficient microbial consortia can substantially enhance the composting of agricultural residues, contributing to effective waste management and sustainable agricultural practices.