The microbiological and physicochemical parameters were monitored for 12 weeks during composting of five piles (1.5 x 1.0 x 0.80 m(3)) containing mainly rice straw, soybean residue and enriched with rock phosphate. Two treatments were inoculated with buffalo's manure or composite inoculum, two were supplemented with vinasse and inoculated with either the composite inoculum or with both, the last one was served as a control. Four typical phases of composting were observed during the bioprocess: short initial mesophilic phase followed by, thermophilic, cooling and maturation phases. Physicochemical changes confirmed the succession of microbial populations depending on the temperature of each phase in all treatments. Intense microbial activities led to organic matter mineralization and simultaneously narrow C/N ratios. Inoculation of composting mixtures enhanced the biodegradation of recalcitrant substances. The duration of exposure to a temperature above 55 degrees C for at least 16 consecutive days was quite enough to sanitize the produced composts. After 84 days, all composts reached maturity as indicated by various parameters. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.