Lactobacillus plantarum improves the efficiency of sheep manure composting and the quality of the final product.

The addition of exogenous microorganisms is one approach with potential that may also overcome the problem in northern China of slow composting in autumn and winter due to low environmental temperatures. This study investigated the use of supplements of Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum), strains P-8 and LP-10, on the efficiency of sheep manure composting and the quality of the final product. The composting process lasted eight weeks and, during this time, changes in multiple physical-chemical parameters and the compost microbiome were monitored. Microbiota-encoded functions, community structure and physical-chemical parameters were distinct between the two groups. 'Composting microbiota maturation index' was proposed to quantitatively compare the impact of maturation on composting microecology. The rapid improvement in composting rate (4 weeks) and quality of the final product suggest that this approach could provide both technological and economic benefits. This work reveals the tremendous potential of L. plantarum as a promoter in composting.