Biotechnology and Bioinformatics (1+1)

6.1.5.1. Bioremediation of organic detritus

The dissolved and suspended organic matter contains mainly carbon chains and is highly available to microbes and algae. A good bioremediator must contain microbes that are capable of effectively clearing carbonaceous wastes from water. Additionally, it helps if these microbes multiply rapidly and have good enzymatic capability.

• Members of the genus Bacillus, B. subtilis, B. icheniformis, B. cereus, B. coagulans, and of the genus Phenibacillus, P. polymyxa, are good examples of bacteria suitable for bioremediation of organic detritus. However, these are not normally present in the required amounts in the water column, their natural habitat being the sediment. When certain Bacillus strain s are added to the water in sufficient quantities, they can make an impact.They compete with the bacterial flora naturally present for the available organic matter, like leached or excess feed and shrimp faeces.
• As a part of bio-augmentation, the Bacillus can be produced, mixed with sand or clay and broadcasted to be deposited in the pond bottom.
• Lactobacillus is also used along with Bacillus to break down the organic detritus. These bacteria produce a variety of enzymes that break down protein s and starch to small molecules, which are then taken up as energy sources by other organisms. The removal of large organic compounds reduces water turbidity.