Rank Species | ||
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Similar Ideonella, Bacteria, Comamonadaceae, Nylon‑eating bacteria, Pestalotiopsis microspora | ||
Ideonella sakaiensis pet degrading bacteria
Ideonella sakaiensis is a bacterium from the genus Ideonella and family Comamonadaceae capable of breaking down PET plastic which was isolated from outside a plastic bottle recycling facility.
Contents
- Ideonella sakaiensis pet degrading bacteria
- Svr ias academy www comeonindia com current affairs ideonella sakaiensis plastic degrading bacteria
- Discovery
- Impact
- Characterization
- Morphology
- References
Svr ias academy www comeonindia com current affairs ideonella sakaiensis plastic degrading bacteria
Discovery
Ideonella sakaiensis was identified in 2016 by a team of researchers from Kyoto Institute of Technology and Keio University, after collecting samples of PET debris in a search for bacteria which relied on the plastic for carbon growth. The bacterium was observed to utilize two distinct enzymes that reacted with water to break down PET plastics into terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol, substances which on their own pose no threat to the environment.
Impact
The discovery of Ideonella sakaiensis has potential importance for the recycling process of PET plastics. Prior to its discovery, the only known consumers of PET were a small number of fungi including Pestalotiopsis microspora, and knowledge of the new species has spurred discussion about biodegradation as a method of recycling. The bacterium can currently break down a thin film of PET in a little over six weeks, so it is thought that any prospective applications in mass recycling programs will have to be preceded by enhancement of its abilities through genetic modification.
Characterization
I. sakaiensis is Gram-negative, aerobic, and rod-shaped. It does not form spores. The individual cells of the organism are motile and have a single flagellum. I. sakaiensis tests positive for oxidase and catalase.
Morphology
Colonies of I. sakaiensis are colorless, smooth, and circular.
