ISOLATION OF BACTERIAL STRAINS FROM AKRA SOIL OF DISTRICT BANNU AND THEIR BIODEGRADATION CAPABILITIES

Background: Different strategies are present which allow identification of bacteria in different environments. The current gold standard is to culture the bacteria and identify them based on their morphological and metabolic characteristics. Objectives: The present study was designed to isolate bacterial strains having environmental role to degrade various pollutants from Akra soil samples, District Bannu, KPK, Pakistan. Microbial biodegradation is important phenomenon and has attracted attention of the researcher. Methods: Total 6 bacterial strains designated IOM-40, IOM-41, IOM-42, IOM-43, IOM-44 and IOM-45 were isolated. The isolated organisms were identified based on morphological, physiological and genetic characteristics. The isolated organisms were able to grow on T5, TSA, and nutrient agar media. Results: Optimum growth was recorded at 37–45°C, NaCl concentrations (0-0.5%) and at pH 7.0–7.2. Temperature 45°C and medium T5 were best for isolation of bacteria from arid environment of Akra soil. Strains IOM-41 and IOM-45 were rod-coccus shaped and Gram-staining-positive. Bacteria IOM-40 and IOM-43 were Gram-staining-positive and rod shaped. Organisms IOM-42 and IOM-44 were Gram-staining-negative and rod shaped. Conclusion: Organisms IOM-41, IOM-44 and IOM-45 were found possessing biodegradation properties. Isolation of bacteria from such arid environment could be used to mitigate environmental pollution.