Molecular Characterization of Sulfur Reducing Bacteria from Water Samples in Earthen Fish Pond

Student: Blessing Alex (Project, 2025)
Department of Microbiology and Industrial Biotechnology
Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize sulfur-reducing bacteria (SRB) in water samples collected from earthen fish ponds located in Amassoma and Tantua, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected aseptically from three ponds and analyzed using both culture-based methods and molecular techniques. Sulfate-reducing bacteria were initially isolated using Postgate medium, followed by genomic DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene sequencing for molecular identification. BLAST analysis of the sequences revealed six isolates with 100% similarity to known SRB strains, including Priestia megaterium, Bacillus megaterium, and Priestia aryabhattai. Sequence lengths ranged from 1421 to 1498 bp, confirming the quality and reliability of identification. The predominance of Priestia species suggests their active involvement in sulfur cycling and potential influence on water quality through the production of hydrogen sulfide under anaerobic conditions. These findings highlight the ecological significance of SRB in aquaculture systems and the need for improved management strategies to mitigate their potential impacts on fish health and pond environments.

Keywords
molecular characterization sulfur reducing bacteria water samples earthen
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