Abstract

Biodegradation-end of the road for endosulfan

Author(s): Rakhee Nair, Priya R.Iyer

An Endosulfan-degrading mixed culture (Bacteria & Fungi) was enriched from soil with a history of endosulfan exposure, using NSM (non sulfur media) as media; where endosulfan is the sole source of sulfur. Degradation of insecticide occurred with growth of bacteria and fungi. Bacteria and Fungi were identified and the samples were analyzed for degradation using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) and Gas Chromatography (GC). The optimum conditions (pH, temperature, substrate concentration and lighting condition) for degradation were also found. The plasmid was isolated from bacteria by Alkaline Lysis Method and was transformed to Escherichia Coli DH 5 and colonies were inoculated in NSM to check degradation ability.