Biological responses to P‐limitation in indigenous bacteria isolated from drinking water

Abstract

Biofilm formation in direct biofiltration causes operational issues such as accelerated head loss accumulation rate resulting in short filter runtime. Applying coagulant in low P level source water may impose bacteria to the P-limited condition. It is hypothesized that the nutrient limitation, specifically P, as an essential macronutrient for bacteria causes stress and triggers excess extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). Two of the most biofilm-producing bacteria were isolated from a full-scale biofilter, provided the opportunity to study the indigenous biofilter bacteria. The isolated bacteria were identified using full-length 16S rRNA and characterized. The biological behavior of the species was studied under different P-limited conditions in a nutrient-limited medium simulating freshwater nutrient availability. Carbohydrate and Protein-EPS were increased when decreasing the available P in the medium, suggesting that lack of P can trigger higher EPS.

Field evaluation of phosphorus limitation in drinking water biofilters

“…EPS is an important support structure for the microbial community, contributing 50% to 80% by weight to biofilms (Baig et al, 2018). Higher EPS production has been linked to increased phosphorus limitation (Abkar & Gagnon, 2021; Artigas et al, 2015; Bhathena et al, 2006; Xia et al, 2014). Phosphorus limitation and increased EPS concentrations have been associated with reduced hydraulic performance in biofilters (Lauderdale et al, 2012).…”

“…phosphorus limitation (Abkar & Gagnon, 2021;Artigas et al, 2015;Bhathena et al, 2006;Xia et al, 2014). Phosphorus limitation and increased EPS concentrations have been associated with reduced hydraulic performance in biofilters (Lauderdale et al, 2012).…”