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Inhibition of sulfate-reducing bacteria with formate
L Voskuhl1, D Brusilova1, V S Brauer1
1Faculty of Chemistry, Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology (EMB), Aquatic Microbiology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, 45141 Essen, Germany.
FEMS Microbiology Ecology
|January 18, 2022
Summary
High formate concentrations inhibit sulfate-reducing bacteria in Pitch Lake droplets. These findings explain low microbial abundances in this unique extreme environment, crucial for understanding microbial life in oil-water systems.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Microbial communities inhabit extreme environments like Pitch Lake, Trinidad.
- Previous studies noted high sulfate and low sulfate-reducing bacteria in Pitch Lake water droplets.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate potential natural inhibition of sulfate reduction in Pitch Lake.
- Determine the effect of high formate concentrations on sulfate-reducing bacteria.
Main Methods:
- Ion chromatography to measure formate concentrations in water droplets.
- Growth experiments with sulfate-reducing bacteria (Desulfovibrio vulgaris, Desulfobacter curvatus, Desulfococcus multivorans).
- Testing the impact of varying formate levels (2.5, 8, 10 mM) on microbial growth and sulfate reduction.
Main Results:
- High formate concentrations (around 2.37 mM) detected in 21 of 43 droplets.
- 8-10 mM formate slowed growth and sulfate reduction in Desulfovibrio vulgaris and Desulfobacter curvatus.
- Formate inhibited Desulfococcus multivorans growth and sulfate reduction, with complete inhibition under constant formate addition.
- Desulfococcus multivorans uniquely consumed formate.
Conclusions:
- Formate accumulates in Pitch Lake water droplets dispersed in oil.
- These formate levels likely inhibit sulfate-reducing microorganisms, explaining their low abundance.
- Findings offer insights into microbial survival strategies in extreme, oil-rich environments.
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