Influences of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) for autoaggregation of Pseudomonas putida CP1 during growth on mono-chlorophenol

ABSTRACT

Aims: Pseudomonas putida CP1 exhibits substrate-dependent autoaggregation during the degradation of 100 ppm 2- chlorophenol, 100 ppm 3-chlorophenol and 200 ppm 4-chlorophenol. This study discussed the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) by the organism for the formation of aggregates. Methodology and results: Aggregation was accompanied by the production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). The extent of EPS production and the size of the aggregates increased with increasing stress as did the aggregation index and the hydrophobicity of the cells. A biochemical analysis of the EPS showed that the main constituents were carbohydrate (40% w/v) and protein (50% w/v) together with lower levels of DNA (<10% w/v). Conclusion, significance and impact study Given that the aggregated form of the bacterium has shown potential for use in bioaugmentation, an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon could enhance the use of this organism in biological wastewater treatment systems.