Effect of adding Lactobacillus plantarum and soluble carbohydrates to swine manure on odorous compounds, chemical composition and indigenous flora.

Manure odor, which results in the increasing complaints and lawsuits, has increased the tension among swine producers and surrounding residents. The effects of Lactobacillus plantarum and different rates of soluble carbohydrates additions to swine manure on odorous compounds, chemical compounds and indigenous flora were evaluated. Additions were calculated on dried manure weight basis. Variables monitored included ammonia (NH3), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), odor offensiveness, pH, ammonium nitrogen (NH4(+)-N), volatile fatty acids (VFAs), urease and indigenous flora. The results indicated that the combination of L. plantarum and soluble carbohydrates dramatically reduced manure pH. Lower pH resulted in the reduction of NH3 volatilization (34.6%-92.4%, P < 0.01), the increases of H2S (P < 0.05) and NH4(+)-N (5.3%-17.5%, P < 0.05). In addition, L. plantarum and soluble carbohydrates additions significantly reduced odor offensiveness, those VFAs related to malodor indicators (valeric acids, 12.3%-47.7%, P < 0.05; iso-valeric, 3.5%-23.8%) and the main microorganisms responsible for odor production, with the number of Eubacteria in swine manure reducing by 4.9%, 11.6%, 17.4%, 34.1% and 32.2% respectively.