The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effect of distinct bedding depths on the chemical and physical characteristics of beddings used on the growing and finishing phases of swine production, and to associate those characteristics with the dynamics of the microbiota. It was found that different bedding depths were associated with changes in the chemical and microbiological characteristics of the beddings. Rice husk beddings 0.50 m deep
contained a higher total waste volume due to its higher dry matter content, but such volume can be attributed to its higher bedding volume, which makes such bedding more expensive. Besides its lower cost, 0.25 m deep beddings are preferable because they presented compost with greater agronomic value and lower counts of thermophilic bacteria, which provide better environmental comfort for the pigs.

For more information the full article can be found at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/09608524