ObjectivesEndosulfan is a lipophilic insecticide, which causes severe health issues due to its environmental stability, toxicity, and biological reservation in organisms. It is found in the atmosphere, soil, sediments, surface waters, rain, and food in almost equal proportions. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify endosulfan-degrading bacteria from the Kor River and evaluate the possibility of applying bioremediation in reducing environmental pollution in the desired region.MethodsSamples of surface sediments and water were collected from three different stations in two seasons (summer and autumn), as these are areas with high agricultural activity. Isolated bacteria were identified by various biochemical tests and morphological characteristics. The amounts of degradation of endosulfan isomers and metabolites produced as a result of biodegradation were then analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.ResultsIn this study, the following five bacterial genera were able to degrade endosulfan: Klebsiella, Acinetobacter, Alcaligenes, Flavobacterium, and Bacillus. During biodegradation, metabolites of endosulfan diol, endosulfan lactone, and endosulfan ether were also produced, but these had lesser toxicity compared with the original compound (i.e., endosulfan).ConclusionThe five genera isolated can be used as a biocatalyst for bioremediation of endosulfan.

No abstract

Petroleum hydrocarbons are species of dangerous contaminants in nature. Scientists are looking for many years to find solution for removing contaminants from the soil and water environments. Today, the use of microorganism, for removing crude oil pollution from contaminated sites (bioremediation) is considered by scientists. The purpose of this research is to isolate and identify hydrocarbons degrading bacteria from Shiraz Refinery soil. In this study, nutrient agar (NA) and mineral salt agar (MM2) were used as basic cultures. Using the Techniques Replica plating, we transferred colonies on NA surface to the MM2 agar. For spraying hydrocarbons on the MM2 agar surface, we used spray plating technique. Finally we have identified different bacterial genera by using biochemical tests and morphological study. Upon examination on morphological studies and biochemical tests, it is determined that these strains belong to bacterial genera as follows: Bacillus, Corynebacterium,