Survival of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Water for 16 Years
Author Information
Author(s): Pumpuang Apinya, Chantratita Narisara, Wikraiphat Chanthiwa, Saiprom Natnaree, Day Nicholas P.J., Peacock Sharon J., Wuthiekanun Vanaporn
Primary Institution: Mahidol University
Hypothesis
How long can Burkholderia pseudomallei survive in distilled water?
Conclusion
Burkholderia pseudomallei can survive in distilled water for 16 years, with some cells entering a viable but non-culturable state.
Supporting Evidence
- Burkholderia pseudomallei was maintained in distilled water at 25 °C for 16 years.
- The estimated number of live B. pseudomallei was 3.8 x 10^7 cells/ml.
- A colony count suggested that some cells were in a viable but non-culturable state.
- Six different PFGE banding patterns were identified among the colonies.
Takeaway
Scientists found that a type of bacteria can live in water for a really long time, even changing a bit over time.
Methodology
The bacteria were maintained in distilled water at 25 °C, and various tests were conducted to assess their viability and characteristics.
Limitations
The study does not explore the full range of environmental conditions affecting survival.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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