Worms, specifically the African Nightcrawler Worms (Eudrilus eugeniae), as household pets have tremendous potential in making our environment healthier.
Vermicomposting(worm composting) is an ecologically sustainable way of converting biodegradable household wastes into fertilizer. The fertilizer, called vermicasts, has proven to be equal if not superior to synthetic fertilizers.
Nevertheless, the idea of worms as pets is quite difficult to accept because worms are unsightly creatures. The fact that worms feed on rotting materials including animal manure gives the impression that they are dirty and may be a source of diseases.
This impression has no basis at all.
Recent scientific studies have indicated that worm castings are free from pathogenic bacteria and suppresses soil microorganisms detrimental to plants. Some bio-remediation experiments use worms to find out their effectiveness in cleaning contaminated soils.
Worms need care as other pets do. Five basic requirements need to be met to successfully take care of worms: proper bedding, food source, appropriate moisture, aeration and protection from temperature extremes.
It seems difficult but once everything has been set-up, things become easier.
My next post discusses proper bedding for worms.
The reference used for the succeeding posts on "Raising earthworms as pets" is the "Manual of On-Farm Vermicomposting and Vermiculture", by Glenn Munroe, Organic Agriculture Centre of Canada
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