Quick update on the papaya vermicomposting front. I actually almost forgot about this one (surprise – lol) – but a comment on the first post reminded me to go have a look today.
The papaya is definitely pretty well processed by now – and a LOT more worms seem to be taking an interest in it as well. I have included my Day 0 image below for comparison.
DAY 0
DAY 8
As you can see, the springtails are really going to town on the remains of the fruit!
When I flipped the pieces over, I also found lots of worms – especially under the lower piece. Interestingly, most of the worms seemed to be quite young. Perhaps the larger worms are simply hanging out a bit further below the surface.
Susan B (who posted the recent comment that reminded me to check on the experiment today) mentioned the possibility of papaya seeds causing sterility in worms. This sounds like a new Tiny Tub Two Worm Challenge trial waiting to happen!!
Any takers?
😎
Totally amazing the difference between the two pictures!
Looking at the picture……are those little worms? Cause they look like maggots?
(Not meaning to offend you!,)
I don’t have that “white” worm look in mine?
Just wondering.
Thanks,
Lori 🙂
The papaya seeds are used to kill intestinal parasites. There are recommendations to grind the seeds and mix in a smoothie to mask the taste. Somehow intestinal worms get paralyzed and pass through.
http://superfoodprofiles.com/papaya-seeds-parasites
The white maggot looking things are springtails.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BENTLEY! (EARLY I KNOW)
Thanks Jerry!
(Late, I know! haha)