Why Protozoa Tell Us So Much About Wastewater Treatment
Wastewater treatment plants are complex ecosystems with many forms of microscopic life. While bacteria are the primary workhorses, breaking down pollutants, a diverse community of other microorganisms, particularly protozoa, plays a crucial role. These tiny...
Paracoccus: Important organisms for denitrification and sulfide oxidation in wastewater treatment systems
When running Microbial Community Analysis tests wastewater treatment systems some organisms are seen at very high frequencies. Among them most interesting genera is Paracoccus. We see this organism in municipal, pulp & paper, food processing, and even...
Critical Microorganisms in Wastewater Treatment Plants: Understanding how functional groups are used to monitor biomass composition
Biological wastewater treatment units contain an ecosystem where diverse organisms collaborate to treat the wastewater. These microbial communities play essential roles in removing pollutants, recycling nutrients, and maintaining water quality. While there are...
Exploring Syntrophic Bacterial Relationships in Wastewater Treatment
Biological wastewater relies on multiple microbial communities working together to break down pollutants and recycle nutrients. Among these microbial interactions, syntrophic relationships stand out as a cornerstone of efficient wastewater management. To understand...
The Role of Sulfides in Anaerobic Digesters
Sulfides are primarily produced through the activity of sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). These microorganisms use sulfate as an electron acceptor, generating hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) as a byproduct. While this process is natural, the accumulation of sulfides can have...
Understanding Nitrite Lock in Wastewater: A Disrupted Nitrification Process
Wastewater treatment is a carefully orchestrated process where microbial communities play a critical role in transforming harmful compounds into less hazardous forms. Among these transformations, nitrification—a two-step aerobic process—stands as a cornerstone of...
The Role of Filamentous Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment: Not All Bad
When it comes to wastewater treatment, filamentous bacteria often get a bad rap. However, these microorganisms play a crucial role in the treatment process, especially when present in moderate numbers. Let's dive into how filamentous bacteria contribute to...
Old Sludge – what is it and why is it a problem for wastewater treatment
In wastewater treatment plants, biomass solids is a byproduct of the treatment process. It consists of a mixture of organic and inorganic materials, microorganisms, and bound water. Over time, sludge can age and transform into what is known as "old sludge."...
Impact of Surfactants on Wastewater Treatment Plants
Surfactants, or surface-active agents, are among the most common chemcials used in both households and industrial facilities. Found in everything from personal care products to industrial cleaners, these chemical compounds reduce surface tension between two...
Understanding Bacterial Gene Expression: The Impact on Phenotype vs. Genotype
In the world of microbiology, understanding the relationship between genotype and phenotype is crucial for advancing wastewater treatment technologies. Bacterial gene expression plays a pivotal role in this dynamic, influencing how genetic information translates...