Bacteria Are Responsible for the Degradation Process
In a wastewater treatment plant, the ability of bacteria to convert substances is the main factor in the purification performance. In contrast to a pure culture, in which only bacteria of one species are present, the sludge consists of millions of different species, some of which work together and some of which compete with each other.
Subdivision of Bacteria
Bacteria can be divided into individual groups using molecular biological methods. These groups are called phyla. The subdivision is based on the natural relationship of the bacteria and not on artificial characteristics.
Bacteria can be subdivided into individual groups using molecular biological methods. These groups are called phyla. The subdivision is based on the natural relationship of the bacteria and not on artificial characteristics.
Figure: The Phylogenetic Tree of Life
Bacteria form one of three domains of life and are the oldest organized form of life. The other two domains include the Archaea and the Eukarya.
bacteria were further subdivided by phylogenetic analysis into groups called phyla. Within the individual phyla there is a further subdivision into classes, orders, families, genera, species and even strains.
What Are VIT® Profiles?
Profiles of wastewater samples are defined as the subdivision of all bacteria into different groups and their subsequent quantification. The profiles are created using the VIT® gene probe technology, which records the bacterial groups directly and independently of cultivation.
Reference
Ideally, a reference profile is created from the well-functioning system. The bacterial groups are identified and quantified as a percentage of all living bacteria. In good times, it is sufficient to only fix the wastewater sample. An analysis only needs to be carried out if a comparison is required.
Adjustment
If the degradation performance is reduced, a new profile is created from the wastewater sample and compared with the reference. In this way, it becomes clear which groups of bacteria are responsible for the malfunction of the system.
Process changeover
The process control can then be changed and the effects on the populations measured directly. This provides much faster initial feedback as to whether the process changes lead to the desired change in the bacterial populations, even before the process values show any changes.
Use of VIT® for Profiling
VIT® can be used to create profiles of wastewater samples. Only the living bacteria are measured and quantified directly, i.e. on site. You can choose between a main group analysis and a detailed premium population analysis - depending on your requirements and needs.
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