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Assaying for Inorganic Polyphosphate in Bacteria
Published on: January 21, 2019
Concomitant rock phosphate dissolution and lead immobilization by phosphate solubilizing bacteria (Enterobacter sp.)
Jin Hee Park1, Nanthi Bolan, Mallavarapu Megharaj
1Centre for Environmental Risk Assessment and Remediation, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia. Jin.Park@unisa.edu.au
Journal of Environmental Management
|December 31, 2010
Summary
Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (Enterobacter cloacae) can dissolve rock phosphate (RP) and immobilize lead (Pb) in soil. This method offers an eco-friendly alternative to soluble phosphorus, preventing water eutrophication.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Microbiology
- Soil Science
- Bioremediation
Background:
- Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) offer potential for rock phosphate (RP) dissolution.
- Lead (Pb) contamination in soils poses environmental risks.
- Sustainable phosphorus sources are needed to prevent eutrophication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Enterobacter cloacae for rock phosphate dissolution.
- To assess the immobilization of lead in soil using Enterobacter cloacae and RP.
- To explore an alternative to soluble phosphorus compounds.
Main Methods:
- Bacterial growth medium experiments to assess RP dissolution and Pb immobilization.
- Soil experiments with varying RP levels and Pb spiking.
- X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to identify Pb immobilization products.
Main Results:
- Enterobacter cloacae demonstrated resistance to Pb and solubilized 17.5% of RP in vitro.
- Pb immobilization in soil increased with RP levels (6.98-32.0%) due to pyromorphite formation.
- Bacterial acidification inhibited Pb immobilization in liquid culture.
Conclusions:
- Enterobacter cloacae effectively immobilizes Pb in soil via pyromorphite formation when combined with RP.
- PSB and RP offer a sustainable approach for soil remediation and phosphorus supply.
- This technique mitigates eutrophication risks associated with soluble phosphorus fertilizers.
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