Valorization of Mediterranean Livestock Manures: Composting of Rabbit and Goat Manure and Quality Assessment of the Compost Obtained

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to study the viability of the composting of goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) manure (GM) and rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) manure (RM) and to evaluate the quality of the compost obtained. For this, a mixture of these manures was prepared at a goat/rabbit ratio of 44:56 (fresh-weight basis) and 50:50 (dry-weight basis). The mixture was composted by the Rutgers static pile composting system, with forced aeration and controlled temperature. Throughout the composting process, the temperature was monitored and physicochemical, chemical, and biological parameters were evaluated. The temperature evolution showed the suitable development of the composting process, with thermophilic values (>40 °C) maintained for more than 90 days. The finished compost had stabilized and humified organic matter. However, the pH (9.4) and the salinity (EC of 13.4 dS/m) could limit its potential agricultural use.

Keywords:

• Animal manures
• composting system
• maturity properties
• salinity