Parasitic assessment of vermicasts and worms in vermicomposting farms of Alfonso, Cavite and Bay, Laguna

Abstract

This study assessed the vermicasts and worms for parasites obtained in vermicomposting farms in Cavite and Laguna, Philippines. Parasites in earthworms were examined histologically and by dissecting the seminal vesicles of the earthworm. The vermicasts were processed through Direct Fecal Smear, Zinc Sulfate Centrifugal Floatation Method and Baermann Funnel Technique. Results showed that numerous parasites were observed in the earthworm and vermicasts. The parasites seen include the Monocystis spp., rhabditiform larva, soil-transmitted helminthes and soil mites. These parasites were observed in both study sites. The intensity of the parasite load from the two study sites was compared and a significant difference was observed (U = 1313.50, p = 0.011). Likewise, the presence of Trichuris spp. eggs and rhabditiform larva were found to be significantly different on both sites (U=306.00, P=0.005 and U=177.00, P=0.000, respectively). The hookworm eggs were only evident in the vermicomposting farm situated at Alfonso, Cavite whereas, the Ascaris eggs were only observed in the vermicomposting farm situated at Bay, Laguna. No significant differences were found between the number of hookworm eggs, Ascaris eggs and soil mites from both study sites. (U=420.00,P=0.154, U=435.00 p=0.317 and U=4350.00, P=0.690, respectively). Continuous monitoring for parasite load in vermicasts need to be undertaken as to safeguard the general public from the possible contamination to our food resources.