Accumulation of Poly (beta-Hydroxybutyrate) by Halobacteria.
Some species of extremely halophilic archaebacteria, Halobacteriaceae, have been shown to accumulate large amounts of poly (beta-hydroxybutyrate) under conditions of nitrogen limitation and abundant carbon source. The production of poly (beta-hydroxybutyrate), at least in large quantities, was restricted to two carbohydrate-utilizing species, Halobacterium mediterranei and H. volcanii. In addition to the nutrients in the media, the salt concentration also influenced poly (beta-hydroxybutyrate) accumulation, which was greater at lower salt concentrations. The possible application of these microorganisms for the production of biodegradable plastics is discussed.
Fernandez-Castillo
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R
Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Alicante, Alicante, and Instituto de Plásticos y Caucho, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Madrid, Spain.
Rodriguez-Valera
F
F
Gonzalez-Ramos
J
J
Ruiz-Berraquero
F
F