There are many kinds of specialized bacteria operating in different temperature ranges. As these cooler bacteria go to work, their activity actually begins to heat up the pile. The increased temperature creates the ideal conditions for the next type of bacteria to arrive. If you notice your compost pile steaming in the morning or on a frosty day, it's because these bacteria are busy at work, decomposing your organic waste. These bacteria generally last for up to five days, and then the pile begins to cool.
Actinomycetes go to work next.
These fine, gray-coloured strands are a cross between the bacteria and fungi that often excrete vitamins and antibiotics as they consume the organic waste in your pile. Molds and fungi get down to business along with the actinomycetes. They are closely followed by the members of the food web that shock many a new composter. Worms also arrive at this stage. As a result of the worm's well-deserved reputation for being excellent decomposers, many people think that it's a great idea to add extra worms to their compost pile.