Characterization of a strain of Sphingobacterium sp. and its degradation to herbicide mefenacet

Article type: Research Article

Authors: YE, Yang-fang^; | MIN, Hang | DU, Yu-feng

Affiliations: College of Life Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310029, China | College of Life Science and Biotechnology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, Ghina | Environment Protection & Detection Genter Station of Ningbo, Ningbo 315010, China

Note: [] Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: A bacterium (designated strain Y1) degrading acetanilide herbicide mefenacet was isolated from aerobic sludge. Based on the analyses of partial 16S rRNA gene, cellular fatty acid and BIOLOG-GN, and general physiological and biochemical characteristics, strain Y1 was identified as Sphingobacterium multivolum. Strain Y1 was able to degrade mefenacet used as sources of carbon and energy. Degradation of mefenacet was accompanied by producing the metabolites N-methylaniline and an unidentified compound with molecular weight 205, indicating a metabolic pathway of mefenacet initiated by hydrolysis of amido bond.

Keywords: herbicide, mefenacet, Sphingobacterium, biodegradation

Journal: Journal of Environmental Sciences, vol. 16, no. 2, pp. 343-347, 2004