Seafood processing wastes as nutrient sources for crop production

Abstract

Large quantities of wastes are generated in the processing of seafood such as shellfish, crustaceans and finfish. These materials contain appreciable amounts of plant nutrients which may be useful in cropping programs. Under some conditions the waste materials can be directly applied to soil but in other situations stabilization may be necessary. The method of stabilization will influence the availability of nutrients in various cropping programs. Composting with wood can effectively stabilize the waste but the slow mineralization of organic N can limit the usefulness of the compost. Combining the waste with calcium oxide (CaO) or hydrated lime [Ca(OH) 2 ] can produce a stable material with good nutrient availability. If application rates of various wastes are based on their nutrient content, the nutrient requirement of specific crops, and the heavy metal concentrations, then potential environmental problems associated with excess nutrient and heavy metal loadings can be minimized. Application of these materials to land can effectively supply nutrients to crops and minimize environmental damage due to inappropriate methods of disposal. Key words:Seafood waste, composting, lime stabilization, crop nutrients