Exploration of Bioflocculant-Producing Bacteria in Sokoto Metropolis Wastewater: Isolation, Characterization, and Environmental Implications

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to isolate, identify and characterize bacteria capable of producing bioflocculants from wastewater of three (3) different refuse dump sites at Nagarta College, Gidan-Igwai, and Gidan-Dare Areas of Sokoto Metropolis using microbiological and biochemical techniques. Study Design: Serial dilution technique was used for the isolation of bacteria from the samples. 1ml of each of the collected wastewater samples was serially diluted from 10-1 to 10-6 into different test tubes to reduce concentration of cells. Place and Duration of Research: This research was carried out at the laboratory of Department of Microbiology, at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Nigeria which lasted for three months. Sample collection: Waste water sample were collected from Nagarta College Area (A), Gidan-Igwai Area (B), and Gidan Dare-Area (C) using a sterilized syringe 10ml capacity each then transported to the Laboratory, Department of Microbiology Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto Nigeria for further analysis.   Methodology: Bioflocculant-producing bacteria were isolated from wastewater through serial dilutions, inoculation, microbial count, and growth on Yeast Extract Peptone Glycerol(YPG) medium. Bioflocculant activity was assessed spectrophotometrically. Results: Out of the seven bacteria isolated and screened for bioflocculant production, five demonstrated significant flocculating activity. These strains were further identified as various rod-shaped bacteria species, including Bacillus sp., Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella sp., and Staphylococcus aureus. Notably, Klebsiella sp. exhibited the highest flocculating activity, reaching an impressive rate of 48.55%. It was followed by B. subtilis with a flocculating activity of 25.21%, P. aeruginosa at 24.97%, S. aureus at 15.90%, andBacillus sp. with of 1.06%. Conclusion: This study highlights the promising potential of these identified rod-shaped bacteria species for bioflocculant production. The significant flocculating activity demonstrated by these bacteria indicates their suitability for application in wastewater treatment. The isolated bacteria could be utilized in wastewater treatment, providing benefits like environmental preservation, enabling water reuse and recycling, protecting public health, and economic advantages, leading to a safer and more sustainable community.