Using Bacteria and Protozoa as a Bioremediation Method to Clean Up Organic Pollutants

Overview

Serenity Haynes Central Lee High School 2063 Highway 218 Donnellson, Iowa Using Bacteria and Protozoa as Bioremediation Method to Clean up Organic Pollutants The purpose of this project was to use an organic and natural method of cleaning up oil spills opposed to current chemical procedures. I used a total of 9 test tubes for each of the subjects. I used an aquatic bacterium, Geobacillus stearothermophilus, and two types of protozoans which are Amoeba and Euglena. First for my controls I put 8 mL of either of the bacterium or protozoa into the test tube. Next, I would add 4 mL of spring water into the tubes. Then I would add 1 mL of the designated organism for the trials. Finally, I would add either 1, 2, or 3 drops of oil depending on the tubes that is in that group. To incubate my bacterium, I would put them in an incubator at 55° C (108°F) to gather data for 4 months. The protozoa and Amoeba stayed at room temperature (which is about 70°F) and my Euglena was placed under a grow light. The data was analyzed and the conclusions were drawn that Geobacillus stearothermophilus degraded oil most effectively. Amoeba is the best protozoa to use for breaking down in freshwater environment. Euglena breaks down oil but not as effective as Amoeba.

Competition history

• AJAS 2020 Category not listed

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