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soil [64]. It is found that when vermicompost was added in the soil, the mean bulk density, and

mean total porosity were the least. Air permeability rose and penetration resistance reduced
dramatically as wet aggregate stability improved and bulk density reduced. Increased microbial

population and activity led in the development of aggregates and increased soil porosity,
resulting in decreased particle and bulk densities. Physicochemical characteristics such as pH,

electrical conductivity (EC), porosity, moisture content, water holding capacity, and chemical
properties like nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, and magnesium were all found to be

significantly improved in vermicompost treated soil, while the corresponding physicochemical

values in control soil were minimal in rice crop [65]. Vermicompost has indeed been found to
have significant concentration of total and bioavailable nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium (NPK),

and micronutrients, as well as microbial and enzyme activity and growth regulators.
Polysaccharides appeared to be abundant in vermicompost. Polysaccharide worked as a

cementing ingredient in the soil, causing aggregate stability, which helped to establish and

maintain the soil structure for improved aeration, water retention, drainage, and aerobic
conditions. The preservation of soil structure is essential for root elongation and nutrient uptake.

The inclusion of mucus secretion and microorganisms from the earthworm’s gut improves the
soil’s aggregate stability. The absorbent organic matter in vermicomposts increases the soil’s

water retention capacity by holding only the quantity of water required by the plant roots [66,

67]. Vermicomposts have been found to have a higher base exchange capacity and a higher
oxidation potential rise [68]. The C/N ratio of vermicompost is usually lower, indicating that it

is more suited for use as a soil amendment. By altering the physiochemical parameters of the
soil, vermicompost was able to limit the loss of nutrients through leaching [69]. Humic acid

and biologically active compounds like plant growth regulators are abundant in vermicompost.
Humic acid has been proven to improve nutrient accretion in situations where nutrients are

scarce or when additional nutrients are provided. Humic acids may have a hormone-like effect

on plant growth and productivity as a result of their involvement in cell respiration,
photosynthesis, oxidative phosphorylation, biogenesis, and a variety of other enzymatic

functions [24, 70].

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