An apparatus and process for the efficient vermicomposting of organic containing wastes. A continuous thin layer of biomass is formed in which worms are established and encouraged to compost and migrate. The thinness of the biomass layer increases uniformity and allows for a higher rate of worm activity. By moving the biomass upon a conveying surface a continuous open system is created. New matter is introduced, digested and withdrawn while maintaining the active worms within a portion of the biomass. Spatial efficiency is provided by creating multiple beds in a stacked configuration.
The invention relates to a composting toilet installation comprising: a toilet seat placed over a gravity outlet opening; receiver means for receiving liquid effluent, fecal matter, and other waste; recovery means for receiving the liquid effluent; and displacement means for moving the fecal matter and other waste from the reception zone towards a storage zone. The installation further comprises in the storage zone: a composting medium constituted in particular by the fecal matter and other waste brought in by the displacement means and containing worms of a variety suitable for transforming the fecal matter and other waste into compost; and dampening means for keeping the composting medium damp other than by means of urine.
Disclosed are an apparatus and methods for in vivo mass production of insecticidal nematodes, which the efficiency and volume of nematode production. In the method, nematodes are cultured within a natural insect host. The apparatus comprises at least one harvesting area, a water dispensing system that promotes harvest of nematodes from the host organisms, and a water collection and concentration system for nematode collection and storage. The harvesting area comprises reusable stackable perforated trays, which allow passage of dispensed water while retaining the nematode hosts. The perforations are sized to retain the host organisms and facilitate the passage of harvested nematodes carried within the dispensed water.
A system for processing sewage into vermicompost includes a holding tank for receiving and initially processing the sewage. A treatment tank, connected to the holding tank by a first pipe, is used for treating the initially processed sewage from the holding tank to ensure optimal pH, percent of solids, and electrical conductivity of the sewage. A distribution tank, connected to the treatment tank by a second pipe, is used for heating or cooling the sewage from the treatment tank as necessary. A distribution apparatus, connected to the distribution tank by a third pipe, distributes the sewage to a vermicular environment, wherein the vermicular environment contains a plurality of worms which digest the distributed treated sewage into vermicompost.
The present invention provides a method for the aquaculture of marine deposit feeders, such as Arenicola marina and Arenicola defodiens. The method comprises providing a foodstuff such as brewery yeast or waste from fish farms within the substrate housing the worms. The foodstuff is conveniently particulate or microparticulate to aid intimate admixture with a substrate, which is typically sand.
