Optimization of
Indigenous Alkalophilic Bacteria of Sambhar Lake on B4 Medium
Rani Ujjwala and Gupta Varsha
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(11); 60-67;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/2011rjbt060067; (2025)
Abstract
This study explores the isolation and characterization of alkalophilic bacterial
strains from the hypersaline Sambhar Lake, with a focus on their potential for mineral
precipitation, specifically calcium carbonate. Soil samples were collected from
the lake and analyzed for physicochemical properties, revealing an alkaline pH (9)
and high salinity, conditions conducive to the growth of halophilic bacteria. Bacteria
were grown on 10% NaCl nutrient agar and subsequently cultured on specialized B4
medium for mineral precipitation. Five distinct bacterial strains were isolated,
identified through 16S rRNA sequencing as Halomonas salifodinae UJSL1, Oceanobacillus
kimchii UJSL2, Halobacillus dabanensis UJSL3, Halomonas mongoliensis UJSL4 and Halomonas
campaniensis UJSL5.
All strains demonstrated urease activity and produced significant calcium carbonate
precipitates. Halomonas salifodinae UJSL1 and Halomonas mongoliensis UJSL4 were
the most effective in producing large, well-formed crystals as confirmed by SEM
analysis. The findings suggest that these strains hold potential for applications
in biocementation, carbon sequestration and environmental remediation. The study
contributes valuable insights into the use of halophilic bacteria for sustainable
and eco-friendly biomineralization processes.
