Recent advances in microbial aspects of compost production and use

• Published in: Acta horticulturae no. 1013; pp. 443 - 457
• Main Authors: Moreno, J, López, M.J, Vargas-García, M.C, Suárez-Estrella, F
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: International Society for Horticultural Science 01.01.2013
• Subjects: aerobic conditions; biodegradation; biotransformation; compost quality; composting; ecology; microbial activity; microorganisms; monitoring; organic matter; raw materials; temperature
• ISSN: 0567-7572
• DOI: 10.17660/actahortic.2013.1013.55

Composting is the biological decomposition of organic matter under controlled, aerobic conditions, into a humus-like, stable product called Compost. The micro-organisms naturally occurring in the raw materials and surrounding environment are the main responsible of this biotransformation. However, their role is often under-estimated and misunderstood, mostly because of its complexity. Most composting practices aim to improve microbial activities in composting processes and monitoring is usually performed by measuring temperature inside of the pile and several chemical parameters that inform about the microbial activities and the biodegradation carried out by them. The knowledge of microorganisms involved in composting, the changes they make in organic matter and how composting procedures influence their activities is of utmost importance for the success of the process of transforming organic matter into good quality compost. This paper summarizes the biological nature of composting with microorganisms as the central key of the process. The ecology of the composting pile, the biotransformation microorganisms perform, the activity of beneficial and harmful microorganisms, and several practices to improve microbial activity are also discussed. Finally, the main biological features of compost, including its special microbiota and its beneficial effects as biological activators are described.