Journal of the Marine Biological Association of India

Some aspects on the distribution of 'Phosphobacteria' in marine environment at Porto Novo.

Volume 18 Issue 3

D. Chandramohan

Abstract

The occurrence and distribution of a special group of bacteria called 'Phosphobacteria' capable of dissolving insoluble phosphorus compounds in marine environment at Porto Novo were studied and reported. Various bottom sediments of marine, estuatine, and fresh water zanes, intertidal sands, soils from hydrogen sulphide area and different waters like seawater. estuarine water, interstitial water and sub-terranian water were analysed. Totally 20 samples were taken for analysis. Total and phosphobacterial populations were estimated in each sample. Phosphobacteria were present in all the samples irrespective of the variations in salinity, pH, texture of the soil and depth of sampling. Clayey substrata harboured more phosphobacteria when compared to sandy ones. Sub-terranian water also contained phosphobacteria but the population was very low when compared to other waters. Facultative anaerobes capable of dissolving insoluble phosphate were also isolated from the hydrogen sulphide region. In general bottom deposits contained more phosphobacteria than in the corresponding overlying water. Preliminary staining and biochemical studies revealed that majority of the isolates belong to one genus. Bacillus. The horizontal and vertical distribution of phosphobacteria is discussed in relation to other environmental factors.

Date : 31-12-1976