Microbial Decomposer Capsule

In News: scientists have developed a bio-decomposer technique called ‘PUSA Decomposers’ for converting crop stubble into compost.

What is Decomposition ?

• Decomposition refers to a biological process of breaking down organic material into smaller constituent parts.
• The decomposition of organic substances is ecologically significant. It plays a part in the nutrient cycle. It is an essential process of recycling matter in the biosphere.
• A decomposer is an organism whose ecological function involves the recycling of nutrients by performing the natural process of decomposition as it feeds on decaying organisms.
• Examples of decomposers are fungi and bacteria that obtain their nutrients from a dead plant or animal material.
• They break down cells of dead plants and animals into simpler substances, which become organic nutrients available to the ecosystem.

Pusa Bio-decomposer

• It is a solution developed by the scientists at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, which can turn crop residue into manure in 15 to 20 days and therefore, can prevent stubble burning.
• It involves making a liquid formulation using Pusa decomposer capsules and readily available inputs, fermenting it over 8-10 days, and then spraying the mixture on fields.
• It is a mix of seven fungi that produce enzymes to digest cellulose, lignin and pectin in paddy straw.
• The fungi thrive at 30-32 degree Celsius, which is the temperature prevailing when paddy is harvested and wheat is sown.

Benefits of PUSA decomposers:

• Improves the fertility and productivity of the soil as the stubble works as manure and compost for the crops and lesser fertiliser consumption is required in the future.
• It is an efficient and effective, cheaper, doable and practical technique to stop stubble burning.
• It is an eco-friendly and environmentally useful technology.