Bacteral degradation of anthracene by Pseudomonas fluorescens KCP2

Abstract

Pseudomonas fluorescens KCP2 species metabolized anthracene as the sole source of carbon and energy. Salicylic acid and Catechol were identified as few of the metabolic intermediates during the biodegradation of anthracene based on TLC and enzyme analysis. Pseudomonas fluorescens KCP2 cell free extracts exhibited salicylate hydroxylase and Catechol 1,2-dioxygenase enzymes with a specific activities of 0.34and 0.24 mmoles min-1mg-1 of protein respectively. The degradation rates were determined in the presence and in the absence of synthetic surfactants. The Pseudomonas fluorescens KCP1 species was immobilized in alginate and agar matrices. Both the matrices were stable with degradation ability for a period of 37 days and 31 days respectively. © Global Science Publications