Arsenic-resistant bacteria in groundwater: Isolation and biochemical characterization

Authors

Ramirez, J. Kenedy

Gonzales-Condori, Elvis Gilmar

Choquenaira-Quispe, Celia

Yucra-Condori, Harry Ricardo

Abstract

Arsenic is a frequent contaminant of water,especially in geographical areas with the presence of volcanoes. This semi-metal is considered toxic to humans. Therefore, its removal from water resources is a constant challenge in the scientific community. The present study aims to search for bacteria capable of resisting high concentrations of arsenic and could eventually be useful in the removal of this contaminant. Three bacteria capable of tolerating 2mM arsenic were isolated and morphological and iochemical characterization was performed. In addition, by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene, it was identified that they belong to Cupriavidus and Pseudomonas and they were registered in GenBank. These bacteria are potential agents for removing arsenic from water. However, further studies are needed to evaluate this property