Effect of dusts emitted by copper smelters on Erwinia carotovara

The effect of the dust emitted by copper smelters on Erwinia carotovora was examined. The dust contains considerable amounts of heavy metals which inhibited the growth and enzymatic activity of the bacterial cultures. The inhibition of dehydrogenase and protease activity was greater than that of the growth rate. The phenolase production and virulence of strain was also inhibited, depending on the doses of dust. Calcium carbonate counteracted the toxic effect of dust, restoring enzymatic activity and virulence of bacteria.