The effects of pesticides on anaerobic digestion processes

Abstract

Abstract The effects of the fungicide Mancozeb, the herbicide Ametryne, and the molluscicide Niclosamide, on the anaerobic digestion of glucose by a mixed bacterial population were evaluated. Effects on activity of a pure culture of the methanogen, Methanosarcina barkeri was also tested. Pronounced inhibition of methanogenesis from glucose was observed for Mancozeb at a concentration of 100 mg.l‐1. In contrast, methanogenesis by Methanosarcina barkeri was not affected by Ametryne and Mancozeb, although Niclosamide delayed the onset of methanogenesis. Long‐term incubations (up to 60 days) indicated relief from Niclosamide inhibition.