Biodegradation of chlorpyrifos by the newly isolated Escherichia fergusonii and Clostridium bifermentans: Identification and growth optimization for bioremediation.
Lagiso TL, Woldesemayat AA, Gemta ZB
Bioremediation
PubMedPesticides sprayed on crops can linger in soil and water long after harvest, potentially ending up in the vegetables you eat or the streams near your favorite park — and these bacteria offer a way to neutralize that threat naturally.
Researchers found two types of bacteria living in Ethiopian farm soil that can eat and break down a common but dangerous pesticide called chlorpyrifos. They tested these bacteria in a lab and found one could eliminate nearly 60% of the pesticide, while the other wiped out over 70%. This discovery is exciting because using bacteria to clean up pollution is cheap, natural, and doesn't create new toxic byproducts.
Key Findings
Escherichia fergusonii degraded 59.34% of chlorpyrifos at 50 mg/L concentration
Clostridium bifermentans degraded 70.82% of chlorpyrifos at 50 mg/L concentration
Both bacterial strains are newly reported chlorpyrifos degraders, identified via 16S rRNA sequencing and confirmed by GC-MS analysis
chevron_right Technical Summary
Scientists in Ethiopia discovered two bacteria that can break down chlorpyrifos, a harmful pesticide widely used in agriculture despite restrictions. These microbes degraded up to 70% of the pesticide, offering a natural cleanup method for contaminated soil and water.
Abstract Preview
Chlorpyrifos, widely used in Ethiopia despite restricted official status, contaminates soil and water, posing environmental and health risks. Microbial bioremediation offers a natural, eco-friendly...
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