Bacteria are one of the organisms used in bioremediation to degrade pollutants that jeopardize environmental and human well-being. Pseudomonas putida is a bacterium that plays a significant role in the bioremediation process. According to Weimer et al. (2020), the bacterium is gram-negative and rod-shaped which is found in different ecological habitats. Additionally, Pseudomonas putida is characterized by its rapid growth rate, undemanding and opportunistic nutritional capabilities, and the ability to withstand toxic chemicals as well as oxidative stress. These features make the organism an essential agent for bioremediation.
Pseudomonas putida is commonly used in the bioremediation of pollutants found in pesticides and several heavy metals found in industrial waste. Medfu Tarekegn et al. (2020) indicate that the bacterium has a considerable biosorption capability because of its high surface-to-volume ratio. Pseudomonas putida’ cell wall has potential active chemisorption sites. It is also stable, and its ability to survive increases when in mixed cultures. Pseudomonas putida breaks down pollutants into non-toxic metabolites when applied to contaminated environments.
Although Pseudomonas putida is a useful agent for bioremediation, its excessive usage can be associated with negative impacts. Application of the organism in bioremediation results in its release to the soil and aquatic environments. Therefore, the bacterium’s opportunistic nature can cause infections in immunosuppressed individuals (Weimer et al., 2020). The bacterium can also develop resistance to antibiotics, limiting effective treatment for infections it may cause. Nevertheless, the risks to environmental and human well-being from Pseudomonas putida are significantly low when used as instructed and considering all precautions. Therefore, utilization of the bacterium in bioremediation is an effective way of ensuring a safe environment for both human beings and animals.
References
Medfu Tarekegn, M., Zewdu Salilih, F., & Ishetu, A. (2020). Microbes used as a tool for bioremediation of heavy metal from the environment. Cogent Food & Agriculture, 6(1), 1-20. Web.
Weimer, A., Kohlstedt, M., Volke, D. C., Nikel, P. I., & Wittmann, C. (2020). Industrial biotechnology of Pseudomonas putida: Advances and prospects. Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 104(18), 7745–7766. Web.