equinox2, I don't have references, but I've read that papaya seeds contain a substance that can render worms sterile. I've put some in my bin, but how am I supposed to know if any of the worms are sterile?

I never heard anything about mango & persimmon and I've put quite a bit of both in my bin without any adverse effects. Pineapple is a different story. I never followed up with a controlled experiment, but I did have a bad experience where I thought pineapple was the culprit. I now just throw it in my regular compost bin.

Andrew

Though i've fed my worms persimmon & mango with no obvious ill effects, pineapple is quite another story.
Here is a link to a story about pineapple & worms.
http://www.redwormcomposting.com/general-questions/are-pineapple-and-papaya-harmful-to-worms/

Shaul