Heterotrophic Fungal Counts Research Articles

Biodegradation potentials of soil-borne fungal cultures grown on haloxyfop R methyl ester herbicide medium

The heterotrophic and haloxyfop-R methyl ester utilizing fungal counts associated with two top soil samples was determined. Five (5) fungal isolates; Aspergillus niger, Candida sp., Trichoderma sp., Fusarium sp., and Alternaria sp. Were cultured from the soil samples using serial dilution as well as pour plate techniques. These isolates were sub-cultured and screened for their ability to use haloxyfop-R methyl ester as sole source of metabolic energy as well as using the turbidimeteric method. Two of the screened fungal isolates which exhibited maximal optical density (OD) difference values; A. niger and Fusarium sp. Were selected and utilized for the subsequent degradation/shake flask experiment. Growth profile parameters which included; pH, OD, dissolved CO2 and weighed dry fungal biomass were determined during the growth profiling test at a 96 hour interval for 16 days using appropriate methods and equipment. Mean soil pH values were 5.08 ± 0.02 and 4.62 ± 0.02 for samples A and B. The mean total heterotrophic fungal count was 8.7×10³ cfu/g ± 1.5 for A and 1.6 × 10⁴ cfu/g ±1.0 for B. The mean pH value observed for A. niger in the course of the growth profile test ranged from 6.0 ± 8.7 to 7.3 ± 8.0 and 7.3 ± 5.8. The mean OD values observed for A. niger and Fusarium sp. In the course of the shake flask experiment varied from 0.66 ± 7.1 to 1.96 ± 4.5 and 1.62 ± 5.4 to1.99 ± 3.6 respectively. With reference to the detection of mean dissolved CO2 values, utilized as an indirect indicator of herbicide mineralization, the axenic cultured A. niger was the most effective amongst the growth profile fungal cultures.

Assessment of Airborne Microbial Composition and Antibiotic Susceptibility Profiles in Dumpsite Environments within Rivers State University

The study was aimed at determining the microbial air quality and antimicrobial susceptibility of dumpsites within Rivers State University. The samples were collected from 5 different dumpsites and 10 meters away using the plate sedimentation method. Petri dishes containing culture media were used as sampling surfaces. The sampled media were incubated at 37oC and 30oC for bacteria and fungi respectively. The isolates from the culture were subcultured and identified by biochemical test methods. The multidrug resistance sensitivity of the isolates was determined by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method and multiple antibiotic resistance (MAR) index was determined. The total heterotrophic bacterial count of the dumpsites ranged from 1.43×103CFU/m3 to 5.8×104CFU/m3. The total heterotrophic fungal count of the dumpsites ranged from 1.06×103CFU/m3 to 2.3×103CFU/m3. The different bacteria identified were Bacillus sp, Micrococcus sp, Pseudomonas sp, Serratia sp, Staphylococcus sp. The fungi, Aspergillus niger, Saccharomyces sp, Fusarium sp, Aspergillus flavus, Candida albican, Penicillium sp and Mucor sp, Rhodotorula sp, A. fumigatus were identified. The antibiotic sensitivity study showed that 100% of the Gram-positive isolates were resistant to Augmentin, cefuroxime, 66.6% were resistant to cefotaxime, 50% were resistant to ceftriaxone, sulbatam, 33.3% were resistant to cefexime and erythromycin while 16.66 of the Gram-positive bacteria were resistant to, levofloxacin, gentamycin, ofloxacin, imipenem and cefotaxime. For the Gram-negative bacteria, 83.3 were resistant to ampiclox, cefuroxime, levofloxacin, 66.6% were resistant to cefexime, 50% were resistant to augmentin, cefotaxime, 33.3% were resistant to imipenem, gentamycin, nitrofurantoin, 16% were resistant to ceftraxime and all (100%) the bacterial isolates were sensitive to nalidixic acid. The study revealed that the dumpsite had impact on both the microbial load and quality of the environment. The microorganisms identified could contain pathogenic sp and impact on human health especially the immune-compromised. Also, the microbial load of the air around the dumpsites decreased with increase in distance from the dump sites. The presence of multidrug resistant isolates could be of public health concerns.

Assessment of Microbial Loads, Species Characterization and Composition in Prawn (Macrobrachium vollenhovenii) Fillets from Major Wetlands in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

The objective of this paper is to assess the assessment of microbial loads, species characterization and composition in prawn (Macrobrachium vollenhovenii) fillets from major wetlands (Nwaniba, Ibaka, Ibeno and Itu) in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The microbial loads, species characterization and composition in prawn fillets were determined using standard microbiological procedures. Results from the study revealed total heterotrophic bacterial counts ranging from 2.10 x 104cfu/g in samples from Ibeno to 7.30 x 104cfu/g from Itu samples. Samples from Itu also recorded the highest values (3.5 x 104cfu/g) of total heterotrophic fungal counts. A total of eight bacterial (Staphilococcus aureus, S. albus, Enterobacter aerogenes, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus luteus, Arthrobacter freundii and Salmonella ecterica) and six fungal (Candida tropicalis, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, A. terreus, Mucor mucedo, and Rhizopus sp) species were isolated. The bacterial species, Micrococcus luteus and Arthrobacter freundii had 100% frequency of occurrence while in the fungal group it was Candida tropicalis. The presence of these pathogenic organisms in prawn samples from these wetland areas may infer possible threat to the health of prawn consumers especially when the products are undercooked or poorly processed before consumption.

Bioremediation of a crude oil contaminated soil using water lettuce (<i>Pistia stratiotes</i>)

Laboratory-scale studies were carried out using a nutrient formula produced from Pistia stratiotes plant to achieve bioremediation of crude oil impacted loamy soil. This study assessed the efficacy of powdered Pistia stratiotes as potential bio stimulant in the remediation of crude oil contaminated soil using three test treatments (20ml, 60ml and 100ml) at three test concentrations (20g, 40g and 60g) of nutrient and a control (0g). The remediation process was monitored by assaying the total hydrocarbon content (THC) and soil pH before and after amendment with the powdered P. stratiotes for 90 days. The result showed increase in soil pH and THC in comparison with the control due to soil contamination by crude oil. However, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in soil pH and THC with the introduction of powdered P. stratiotes at different concentrations. Contaminated soil amended with 40g of P. stratiotes had the highest THC loss of (30%) on the final day of remediation. In a 90 day study, the control set-up had its total culturable heterotrophic bacterial population of the P. stratiotes recipe increase from 1.4×107 Cfu/g to 2.8×107 Cfu/g, while the total culturable heterotrophic fungal count in the P. stratiotes treatment ranged from 7.0×104 Cfu/g to 4.0×104 Cfu/g. Statistical analyses showed significant difference at p ≤ 0.05 level for the two conditions (Pistia stratiotes nutrient treated soil and control). The total culturable hydrocarbon utilizing bacteria in P. stratiotes treated polluted soil increased from 1.0×106 Cfu/g to 6.8×105 Cfu/g, while the total culturable hydrocarbon utilising fungal counts increased significantly from 1.9×104 Cfu/g to 4.8×104 Cfu/g for P. stratiotes treatment. The results from this research demonstrated that powdered P. stratiotes is an effective agent that can be used to decrease the pH of contaminated soil and improve soil properties, hence aids in remediating a crude oil contaminated soil.

MICROBIOLOGICAL AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL QUALITIES OF IKPOBA RIVER IMPACTED BY PIPED TREATED BREWERY EFFLUENT STREAM

The impact of discharged treated brewery effluent stream on the microbial andphysicochemical qualities of Ikpoba River which is serving as a receptacle for the treatedwastewater was investigated. Serial dilution, pour plate and multiple tube technique wereemployed in evaluating the culturable microbial diversity of the water samples and thetreated brewery wastewater. The physicochemical attributes of the freshwater and effluentsamples were ascertained using titrimetric and spectrophotometric procedures. The meanheterotrophic bacterial counts for the upstream freshwater samples ranged from 3.7 ×102cfu/ml ± 2.1 to 0. 6 × 102 cfu/ml ± 2. The mean heterotrophic fungal counts for watersamples obtained at the point of discharge ranged from 0.7×103 cfu/ml ± 6.6 to 9.7 × 103cfu/ml ± 6.1. The total coliform counts recorded for water samples obtained at thedownstream sampling point ranged from 2 MPN/105 ml to 5 MPN/105 ml. The E. colicounts for the treated brewery wastewater varied from 2 MPN/105 ml to 4 MPN/105 ml. Theobserved differences in the mean heterotrophic bacterial and fungal counts was statisticallysignificant (P<0.05). Seven bacterial and four fungal isolates were characterized andtentatively identified; Proteus vulgaris, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichiacoli, Streptococcus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Enterobacter aerogenes, Saccharomycescerevisiae, Candida tropicalis, Penicillium sp. and Aspergillus niger. The mean pH, turbidityand conductivity of the respective samples ranged from 5.63±0.05 to 6.78±0.05, 4.1 NTU±0.21 to 6.81 NTU ±0.55 and 3.3 ?s/cm ±0.25 to 73.3 ?s/cm ±6.56 respectively. Thedischarged brewery effluent stream impacted negatively on the as aesthetic quality of theIkpoba River at the point of discharge. The microbiological quality of both the watersamples and the treated effluent is very poor when compared with Federal Ministry ofEnvironment limits for potable water, hence discouraging the direct consumption of thewater sourced from the Ikpoba River at these sampling points by individuals living along thecatchment area of the river

Microbiological and physiochemical analyses of oil contaminated soil from major auto mechanic workshops in ado Ekiti metropolis

The ability of microorganisms to utilize used oil in contaminated soil from some selected major mechanic workshops in Ado Ekiti metropolis as a sole source of carbon and energy was studied. Soil samples collected from the two major mechanic workshops at Adebayo, and Irona Quarters in Ado-Ekiti were analyzed for the microbiological and physicochemical qualities using the basic microbiological methods. The physicochemical properties of the soil samples shows that the value of pH range from 5.45 to pH 5.58, percentage of carbon range from 3.98 % to 4.20%, nitrogen content varies from 2.20 to 2.40. The total heterotrophic bacterial counts from the mechanic workshops ranges from 7.52 x 106 to 8.25 x 106cfu/g while the total heterotrophic fungal counts ranges from 5.54 x 106 to 6.25 x 106 cfu/g. The bacterial recovered from the oil contaminated soils include Staphylococcus spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus spp., E. coli and Acinobacter spp. The frequency of occurrence of the microbial isolates revealed that Bacillus cereus 5 (31.25%) occurred most, followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa (18.75%), Acinetobacter spp. (18.75%) and E. coli (18.75%) while Citrobacter freundii (12.50%) had the lowest frequency of occurrence. The results of this study have showed that some of the isolated organism can be used for bioremediation of the contaminated soil.

Effect of Storage Conditions on the Microbial and Proximate Composition of Bread Made From Wheat Flour and White Flour

Bread is one of the most consumed staple foods in the world. It is a good source of nutrients, such as carbohydrates, protein, and fat and micronutrients (minerals and vitamins) which are essential for human health. The aim of the research is to determine the effect of storage conditions on the microbial and physico-chemical composition of bread from wheat flour and white flour. The fresh samples (white and wheat bought from the super market) were cultured according to the standard microbiological procedures. The Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Count (THBC) of the fresh white flour bread sample (FB) obtained was 1.3×104CFU/g (4.11logCFU/g) while that of Wheat bread (WB) sample was 1.2×104CFU/g (4.00 logCFU/g). The total Staphylococcal Count (TSC) of the samples was recorded as 4.9×103 CFU/g (3.69logCFU/g) which was higher in comparison to that of wheat bread with the count of 1.4×103CFU/g (3.14logCFU/g). Decrease in THBC of wheat bread and white bread sample stored at refrigeration temperature as compared to the bread samples stored at ambient temperature in relation to the days of storage was observed. Refrigeration had little effect on the growth of fungi as observed in this study as the Total Heterotrophic Fungal count (THFC) of refrigerated white bread sample increased from 2.0×103CFU/g (3.30logCFU/g) on the day 6 to 8.9×103CFU/g (3.94logCFU/g) on the day 8. The microorganisms isolated were Micrococcus sp, Staphylococcus sp, Bacillus p, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Rhizopus sp, Mucor sp, Penicillium sp, Candida sp, and Saccharomyces of which Bacillus and Aspergillus where most occurring among bacteria and fungi respectively. The moisture content, crude lipid, crude protein of the white bread sample were higher than those of wheat bread while the ash content, crude fiber and carbohydrate were higher in the wheat bread sample as compared to those of White bread sample. From the result obtained in the study, it was observed that refrigeration temperature was effective in the increase in shelf life of bread by the reduction in bacteria growth in bread thus, it can be recommended for the storage of bread.

ANALYSIS AND ANTIBIOGRAM STUDY OF MICROORGANISMS ASSOCIATED WITH FISH AND MEAT RETAIL SURFACES IN EBELLE, NIGERIA

Education and regulations of hygienic practices are poorly carried out in the informal sector of food supply chain in developing countries, especially rural communities. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate microbiological status of fish and meat retail surfaces in Ebelle market. Four swab samples of fish and meat retail surfaces were collected and examined for microbiological load and profile. Safety of selected isolates was assessed by haemolytic analysis and antibiotic susceptibility profile tests. The total bacterial counts from the surfaces were within the range of 5.06 - 6.40 Log 10 CFU/cm 2 . Coliforms were detected only in fish retail surface swab samples; EF1 (3.96 Log 10 CFU/cm 2 ) and EF2 (5.58 Log 10 CFU/cm 2 ). EF2 had a total E. coli count of 4.78 Log 10 CFU/cm 2 . The identified species include Bacillus sp. (23.08%), Escherichia coli (7.69%), Proteus sp. (15.38%), Pseudomonas sp. (7.69%), Salmonella sp. (97.69%), Staphylococcus aureus (15.38%) and Streptococcus sp. (23.08%). The total heterotrophic fungal counts were between 2.27 and 3.29 Log 10 cfu/cm 2 . β-, α- and γ-haemolysis was exhibited by 9, 2 and 2 isolates respectively. Antibiotic susceptibility test showed that some isolates were multidrug resistant. The results obtained in this study indicate the retail surfaces are potential sources of food contamination. Therefore it is pertinent for regulatory and public health authorities to establish cleaning and sanitation guidelines and train rural food vendor and retailers on the steps and importance of cleaning and sanitation.

Isolation of Heterotrophic and Hydrocarbon-Utilizing Fungi from Selected Mechanic Workshops in Port Harcourt

Spent engine oil wastes in soils are currently considered one of the most serious environmental problems. This type of pollution decreases or fully destroys soil fertility, changes the elemental composition of soil. After their introduction into soil, hydrocarbons affect soil microorganisms directly or indirectly. In this study the population of heterotrophic and hydrocarbon utilizing fungi was investigated in soils from different mechanic workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Soil physicochemical parameters such as pH, temperature, nitrate, phosphorous, potassium, total hydrocarbon content and heavy metals like Pb and Cd were also determined. Standard procedures were followed in the mycological and physicochemical parameters determination. In the soil samples, counts of the total heterotrophic fungi ranged from 0.87±3.62 to 6.9±3.37 ×104 cfu/g soil while counts of the hydrocarbon utilizing fungi ranged from 0.85 ±1.91 to 2.75±1.26 ×103 cfu/g soil. The control soil sample recorded more total heterotrophic fungal counts with significant difference while the soil from the mechanic workshops recorded more hydrocarbon utilizing fungal counts than the control soil sample and was significantly different. Eight fungal genera were isolated and they include Mucor, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Blastomyces, Scedosporium, Microsporium, Candida and Scopulariopsis. Fungal genera such as Microsporium, Candida and Scopulariopsis were not isolated from soils from the mechanic workshops but only isolated from the control soil sample. The pH values ranged between 5.81 to 7.91, temperature ranged from 27.7 to 30 oC, nitrate value ranged from 0.04 to 0.21 mg/kg, PO4 ranged from 1.10 to 3.42 mg/kg, total hydrocarbon content (THC) value ranged from 0 to 170.01 mg/kg, potassium (K) value ranged from 5.063 to 17.013 mg/kg. The heavy metals analyzed were Pb (Lead) and Cd (Cadmium). The Pb ranged from 0.10 to 5.12463 mg/kg, cadmium ranged from 0.13 to 1.65072 mg/kg. The soil samples from mechanic workshops were contaminated with hydrocarbons, and the fungal isolates were primarily hydrocarbon utilizers that may be exploited for contaminated soil bioremediation.

Impact of different doses of deltamethrine on soil microbial density and crop growth

The effects of agrochemicals pollution on soil nutrients, soil microbes as well as plants cultivated on the soil were studied. Insecticide and herbicide were used to impact on the soil samples across concentration gradients. Bean and maize seeds were planted in separate experiments to monitor the effects of the agrochemicals on the plants. The microbial diversity and the physicochemical characteristics of the soil before and after pollution were determined using standard methods. Chlorophyll contents of the leaves were also determined after planting. Results indicated that bacterial isolates such as Enterococcus sp 54(40%), Staphylococcus sp 8(13%), Bacillus sp 46(34%) and Micrococcus sp 15(11%) and fungal isolates such as Penicillium sp 41(34%), Saccharomyces sp 67(56%), Yeast sp 4(3%), Geotrichum sp 6 (5%) and Aspergillus sp 1(1.8%) were recovered from treated and untreated soil with the percentages representing after planting. From the results, the herbicide treated soils indicated that the Total Heterotrophic Bacterial Count (THBC) increased after cultivation while the Total Heterotrophic Fungal Count (THFC) decreased after cultivation. On the other hand, the insecticides treated soils recorded a general decrease in THFC and THBC after cultivation. The total nitrogen (TN) and available phosphorus (AP) had no significant differences before and after planting while the exchangeable potassium (EP) had significant increase recorded after planting. Plants generally had poor growth characteristics recorded by stem girth and length, as well as chlorophyll content.

MICROBIOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT OF BOREHOLES, SACHET AND BOTTLE WATER IN ANCHOR UNIVERSITY AND AYOBO COMMUNITY

The physicochemical and bacteriological quality of borehole, bottle and sachet water sold in Anchor University and within Ayobo community Lagos state, Nigeria was investigated Microbiological analysis was carried out using standard microbial procedure to ensure that the water is microbiologically safe. It was screened for the presence of coliforms and other pathogenic microorganisms. The total heterotrophic bacterial count for bottle, sachet and borehole water are 16.50-123.50 x 103CFU/ml, 65.00-73.00 x 103CFU/ml and 0.00-72.00 x 103CFU/ml respectively while the total heterotrophic fungal count for bottle, sachet and borehole water are 5.00-54.50 x 103CFU/ml, 11.00-27.50 x 103CFU/ml and 6.00-16.16.00 x 103CFU/ml respectively. Most probable number was determined using membrane filtration method and it ranged from 15MPN/100ml, 22MPN/100ml, and 27MPN/100 ml for bottle, sachet and borehole water respectively. The mean total coliform per 100ml ranged from 22-30 x 103CFU/ml while fecal coliform ranged from 4-11 x 103CFU/ml. The isolated organisms were Salmonella paratyphi, Shigella flexneri, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas aeroginosa, Escherichia coli, Citrobacter freudii, Salmonella paratyphi, Aspergillus candidus, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus sulphureus and Penicillium corylophilum. Most of the bacteria isolated showed multidrug resistance to Augmentin, Gentamycin, Pefloxacin, Tarivid, Streptomycin, Septrin, Chloramphenicol and Amoxacillin and showed susceptibility to Ciprofloxacin. The study therefore concludes that these water samples do not meet the WHO standards for potable water; hence they can be potential sources of waterborne diseases.

Effect of Port Activities on the Physicochemical and Microbiological Quality of Surface Water in Warri and Onne Port Terminals, Nigeria

Activities around the port terminals such as cargo handling, and others has environmental implications both inside and outside the port area which may in turn pose severe risks to the environment and water resources resulting to adverse effect on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of the water body. Hence this study was aimed at determination of the effect of port activities on the physicochemical and microbiological quality of surface water at Warri and Onne Port terminals. Surface water samples were collected during wet and dried season between January to June from Onne and Warri port terminals, using sterile containers and transported in an ice packed container to Department of Microbiology laboratory of the Rivers State University for microbiological and physicochemical analyse using standard methods. Statistical analyses were carried out using ANOVA and All pairs tukey-kramer. Results of the Physicochemical Characteristics of the surface water of the dry season ranged as follows; pH (5.6±0.15 to 6.08±0.22),Temperature (27.6±4.278 to 30±1ºC), Electric conductivity (14168±1.90to 2138±27.871 µs/cm), Total dissolved solid (2622±1.70 to 974.2±9.09 mg/l ),Total suspended solid (7.6±0.54 to 111±21.284 mg/l), Dissolved oxygen (2.08±0.19 to 2.68±0.31 mg/l ), Biological oxygen demand (0.78±0.19 to 1.2±0.45 mg/l ), Chemical oxygen demand (1.56±0.38 to 2.4±0.90 mg/l),Turbidity (0.2±0 to 1.36±0.336 NTU),Bromine (0.3±0.01 to 0.6±0 mg/l), Chlorine (<0.001±0 to 0.3±0 mg/l),Nitrate (0.32±0.15 to 5.98±0.74 mg/l ), Sulphate (3.32±0.75 to 694±1.9 mg/l) Phosphate (0.634±0.42 to 2.316±0.44 mg/l ), similar trends were recorded during the wet season. There were significant differences ( P<0.05) between the wet and dry seasons. The mean values of the microbiological results ranged from 1.6±0.77 x 106 to 5.6±2.17 x 106 cfu/ml (Total heterotrophic bacterial count), 0.8 ±2.51 x 104 to 5.6±2.77 x 104 cfu/ml (Total heterotrophic Fungal count), 0.2 ±1.14 x 104 to 3.6 ±1.52 cfu/ml (Hydrocarbon utilizing Bacteria counts) 0.3 ±1.52 x 104 to 1.2 ±2.05cfu/ml (Hydrocarbon utilizing Fungal counts), 0.2±0.71x 104 to 0.6±0.89 x 104cfu/ml (Salmonella spp.). 0.4±0.55 x 104 cfu/ml (Shigella spp), 0.3 ±2.19 x 104 to 1.6±5.13 x 104 cfu/ml (Vibrio spp.) 1.6 ±14.7 x 104 to 2.1±6.39 x 104 cfu/ml Staphylococci spp), 3.9±0.81 x 104 to 4.6 ±1.79 x 104cfu/ml (total coliform), 1.8±0.44 x 104 to 2.7 ±1.03 x 104cfu/ml (feacal coliform). Higher counts were recorded during the wet season compared to dry season. In this study, nine bacteria isolates belonging to the genera and species:- E.coli, Vibrio, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Bacillus sp., Shigella, Staphylococcus, Salmonella, and Proteus, Six fungal isolates, namely, Penicillium sp Candida sp, Mucor sp, Aspergillus, Rhizopus spp, and Yeast were obtained. The results obtained in this study Port terminal houses several companies with beehive of activities which generate various industrial wastes which causes adverse environmental effects which consequently are major atmospheric and water pollution around port terminals. Therefore, proper waste management system should be maintained to avoid emergence of virulent pathogens.

Tolerance of Some Soil Fungi to the Content of Deep Cycle Battery and Their Bioremediation Potential

Aims: The purpose of this study was to isolate and screen soil fungi that are able to tolerate the contents of spent deep cycle battery (inverter), and to test for their bioremediation potential.
 Place and Duration of Study: Sample: Department of Microbiology, Rivers State University, between June 2019 and February 2020.
 Methodology: Soil samples were collected from a mechanic village while spent inverter batteries were obtained from a waste vendor. The battery was forced open to extract its contents of the battery. Using standard microbiological techniques, fungi were enumerated and characterized. Stock solution of the battery content was prepared by dissolving the inverter battery content in sterile deionized water. This stock solution was used to carry out the screening test on the fungal isolates to ascertain the fungi that can tolerate the contents of the spent battery.
 Results: Total heterotrophic fungal counts for the polluted and unpolluted soil were 6.0 x 103 cfu/g and 7.5 x 104cfu/g respectively. The fungal isolates identified from the polluted soil samples were members of the genera Rhizopus, Mucor, Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Candida, while, the isolates identified from the unpolluted soil sample includes: Candida sp, Aspergillus niger, Penicillium sp, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Mucor sp, Yeast, Fusarium sp and Aspergillus sp. After the screening, total heterotrophic fungal counts for the soil ranged from 1.0 x 102cfu/g to 9.5 x 102cfu/g. Two fungi of the genera: Rhizopus and Mucor had the highest counts during 72 hours of incubation for the screening test. The results obtained from this study indicated that species of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Candida were the most inhibited by the contents of the spent battery while Rhizopus and Mucor spp were more tolerant to the contents of the inverter. Rhizopus and Mucor spp were therefore, adopted in the bioremediation of soil contaminated with contents from the battery. It was observed that Rhizopus and Mucor spp in a consortium had the highest percentage of heavy metal removal (or uptake) in the following order: Cadmium (66.66%) > Lead (38.15%) > Zinc (26.83%) > Nickel (20.83).
 Conclusion: These organisms can be used in the bioremediation of soil polluted with metals from spent deep cycle batteries.

Monitoring the Presence of Bacteria, Fungi and Parasitic Pathogens Associated with Swimming Pools in Port Harcourt Metropolis

Aims: Ideal water for swimming should meet the portable water standard by being transparent, odorless, and tasteless. However, these qualities can be affected by the presence of infectious agents which directly or indirectly contaminate pool water. This study aims at monitoring the microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and protozoa parasites) and pH associated with swimming pool water.
 Study Design: A random sampling technique was adopted to select the five (5) swimming pools for the study based on accessibility and visitation.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Rivers State between March 2016 to August 2017.
 Methodology: Five (5) outdoor swimming pools attached to hotels in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Port Harcourt Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria were randomly selected for the study. Water samples were aseptically collected in duplicates and analyzed for total heterotrophic bacterial count, total heterotrophic fungal count, protozoa and pH using appropriate techniques.
 Results: The results show that swimming pools with sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate had a mean THBC range from 4x101 cfu/ml - 1.58x103 cfu/ml, mean THFC, 0 cfu/ml - 8x101 cfu/ml and mean pH, 5.9-6.4; for samples without sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate, the mean THBC ranged from 0 cfu/ml - 9.2x101 cfu/ml, mean THF, 0 cfu/ml - 8x101 cfu/ml and mean pH, 5.6-6-2. Protozoa (parasites) were absent in all water samples analyzed. The results further reveals that 95.9% and 100% of the swimming pools samples failed to the meet the <100 cfu/ml and 7.0 – 7.8 World Health Organisation Standards for THBC and pH respectively. The bacteria identified are Bacillus spp., Escherichia coli, Stapylococcus aureus while the fungi identified are Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp. and Penicillium spp.
 Conclusion: The study finds the levels of THBC in the samples with sodium thiosulphate pentahydrate, the presence of Escherichia coli and the pH range a threat to health of bathers. Therefore, the owners should ensure routine decontamination and assessment of water quality.

The Threatening Effects of Open Dumping on Soil at Waste Disposal Sites of Akure City, Nigeria

This study examines the influence of uncontrolled deposition of MSW disposal on soil in four selected dumpsites across Akure City, Nigeria. Physicochemical and microbial tests were carried out using standard procedure. Soil samples were randomly collected using soil auger from the major (Igbatoro and Iju-Itaogbolu), and the minor (Ijare and FUTA) dumpsites, at depths (0-10, 10-20, 20-30 cm), with control samples taken at a distance 20 m away from each dumpsite. The physicochemical parameters measured include pH, total organic matter, total organic carbon and particle size distribution. The results showed that samples were predominantly acidic (4.12 to 6.73), sandy (32.69 to 65.40) with values ranging from 0.17 to 4.14 and 0.02 to 3.15 for organic matter and organic carbon respectively. The mean values for both aerobic bacterial counts and heterotrophic fungal counts from control to the dumpsites ranged from 188 × 106 to 258 × 106 cfu/mL, and 128 × 106 to 193 × 106 cfu/mL, respectively. Although there exists some positive impacts of dumpings on soil, their adverse effects are life threatening.

Production, Isolation and Identification of Microbes in Home-made Complementary Food Flour Based on Maize-Pigeon Pea Flour

Maize (zea- mays) and pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) were processed into flour by local methods (malting/germination and fermentation) and used in formulating composite complementary foods at different proportions (75:25%), (25:75%) and (50:50%) respectively. The blends were formulated according to fermented maize to fermented pigeon pea, germinated maize to germinated pigeon pea respectively. The microbial contents of the raw maize flour, raw pigeon pea flour and the processed samples were evaluated using standard microbiological methods.. The total heterotrophic bacterial count (13.6 x 106cfu/ml), total heterotrophic fungal counts (3.0 x 106cfu/ml), total coliform counts (11.6 x 106cfu/ml), and total microbial isolates were all higher in the raw flour compared to the processed flour (4.2 x 106cfu/ml, 1.0 x 106cfu/ml, 4.2 x 106cfu/ml, 1.0 x 106cfu/ml and 3.0 x 106cfu/ml) respectively. The bacteria isolated were predominantly in the raw flour mainly Bacillus spp, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus sp, Pseudomonas sp, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella sp, Proteus sp and Streptococcus sp. The fungal isolates were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillin sp, Geotrium sp, Trichophytum rubrium, candida sp and Rhizopus sp. Indicator microorganisms were isolated only in the raw maize and pigeon pea but were not observed in the germinated, fermented and composite blends. Microbial load in the processed and composite blends fall within the level of acceptance (104 - < 106cfu/ml) of the microbiological reference criteria for such foods. This work, therefore concludes that raw flour samples are not suitable as complementary food in the feeding of children.

Microbiological and Physicochemical Evaluation of Oil-polluted Soil from Major Auto Mechanic Shops in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria

The capability of microorganisms to utilize spent oil in polluted soil from some major auto mechanic workshops in Port Harcourt metropolis as the sole source of carbon and energy was studied. Soil samples were collected from three (3) Auto mechanic workshops (Mile 3 Mechanic Village (N 4º48' 34.07'', E 6º59' 10.17''), Ikoku Mechanic Workshop (N 4º47' 54.28'', E 6º59' 36.42'') and Elekahia Zone H Mechanic Workshop (N4º49' 11.62'', E 7º1' 16.58'') in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria from depths of 0–30 cm, 30–60 cm and 60–90 cm at the same spot from each station. Soil samples were analysed microbiologically and physicochemically using standard methods. The control sample was obtained behind the Biology Building of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt. The results of the total heterotrophic bacterial and fungal counts showed that the microbial load was high at a depth of 0 to 30 cm for all the samples analysed including the control. With 60-90 cm depth, low microbial counts were obtained. The total heterotrophic bacterial counts from the three mechanic workshops ranged from 6.8 X 108 to 2.3 X 109cfu/g while the total heterotrophic fungal counts ranged from 1.3 X 106 to 8.0X 106 cfu/g. The spent oil-utilizing microbial populations ranged from1.0 X 105 to 3.0 X 106cfu/g and1.0 X 105 to 8.0 X 105 cfu/g for the bacterial and fungal counts respectively. Five spent oil utilizing bacterial isolates of the genera, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, Bacillus, Micrococcus and Proteus and five fungal isolates of the genera, Penicillium, Candida, Rhizopus, Fusarium and Aspergillus were obtained from spent oil-polluted soil in this study. The pollution index of the different physicochemical parameters obtained from the different sample stations was as follows: Electrical Conductivity (EC): Mile 3 had the highest with the mean of 12.50 ±0.0-13.20±0.0µs/cm, while Ikoku had the lowest with mean of 10.99 ± 0.0-11.50 ± 0.0 µs/cm. Ikoku had the highest pH level with mean of 7.0 ± 0.0- 8.5 ± 0.0 while Mile 3 had the lowest pH level with mean of 6.5 ± 0.0-7.59 ± 0.0. Ikoku had the highest Total Organic Carbon (TOC) with mean of 17.55 ± 0.0-20.60 ± 0.0 mg/kg while Elekahia had the lowest with the mean of 16.99 ± 0.0-18.0 ± 0.0 mg/kg. Ikoku had the highest Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC) with mean of 38,862 ± 0.0-40,500 ± 0.0 mg/kg while Mile 3 had the lowest with the mean of 20,550 ± 0.0-30,000 ± 0.0 mg/kg. From the Pollution Index Analysis, Ikoku Auto Mechanic Workshop is more contaminated with Spent oil than Mile 3 and Elekahia.

Assessment of the effects of cassava mill effluent on the soil and its microbiota in Biase local government area of Cross river state, Nigeria

The effects of cassava mill effluent (CME) on the soil and soil micro-biota was investigated. Soil samples were collected from sites polluted with CME and also from an adjacent site not polluted with CME. Standard microbiological methods were used in the isolation, antibiotic susceptibility and enumerating the population of the microorganisms while the physico-chemical parameters of the soil were determined using standard chemical processes. The bacteria isolates were Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Enterobacter sp., Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium sp. and Proteus sp. and the fungal isolates were Aspergillus sp., Candida sp., Mucor sp., Penicillium sp., Saccharomyces sp. and Rhizopus sp. The mean aerobic bacterial count for the soil samples ranged from 7.1±0.11x105 cfu/g for the control soil to 8.0±0.19x105 cfu/g for the CME impacted soil. The mean heterotrophic fungal counts varied from 4.7±0.41x105 cfu/g for CME impacted soil to 4.2±0.57x105 cfu/g for the control soil. Susceptibility profile showed that Bacillus sp. from the CME impacted site had reduced susceptibility to levoflacin, amoxil, chloramphenicol, and Ciprofloxacin. Pseudomonas sp. from the same site had reduced susceptibility to streptomycin, ampicilin, tarivid, peflacin, augmentin and ciprofloxacin. Escherichia coli had reduced susceptibility to streptomycin, ampicilin, ciprorex and nalidixic acid. The heavy metals Cu, Zn, Ni, Co, and Fe content of the CME impacted soil increased greatly. Excessive application of CME had negative effects on the soil, hence the high concentration of heavy metals in CME dumpsites and high microbial presence. The study also showed that CME can induce the resistance potential of some soil microbes to antibiotics and seriously affect the physicochemical parameters of soil.

Microbiological and Physiochemical Quality of Freshwater in Isiokpo Community, Rivers State, Nigeria

Aim: To determine microbiological quality of fresh water in Isiokpo community.
 Study Design: This study employs standard scientific methods, statistical analysis and interpretation.
 Place and duration of the Study: Fresh water samples were collected from Isiokpo community in Ikwerre L.G.A. of Rivers State, Nigeria. Sampling was done every two weeks from three stations of Isiokpo river for duration of six months (February–July, 2018). Samples were transported in ice packed coolers to the Microbiology Laboratory of Rivers State University, Port Harcourt, and immediately processed for analysis. 
 Methodology: Ten- fold serial dilution technique was adopted after which 0.1 ml of appropriately diluted stock was inoculated onto sterile Microbiological media. Spread plate technique was employed for the isolation, enumeration and identification of microorganisms. The APHA standards were adopted in the determination of physico-chemical parameters which include turbidity, colour, odour, pH, conductivity, total suspended solids, total dissolved solids, nitrate, sulphate, calcium and BOD5. The Duncan multiple range test was employed for analysis of variance (ANOVA) of the data obtained.
 Results: The mean counts for Total heterotrophic bacterial counts ranged from 4.77±0.20 log10 CFU/ml to 4.92±0.11 log10 CFU/ml. Total coliform bacteria ranged from 4.28±0.25 to 4.60±0.25log10 CFU/ml. Total Vibrio counts ranged from 1.77±1.97 log10 CFU/ml to 4.25±0.09 log10 CFU/ml. Total Pseudomonas counts ranged from 2.48±1.93 log10 CFU/ml to 4.0217±0.34 log10 CFU/ml. Total heterotrophic fungal counts ranged from 2.31±1.81 log10 CFU/ml to 4.21± 0.22 log10 CFU/ml in all the stations. The microorganisms isolated belong to the genera of Bacillus, Escherichia, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas, Staphylococcus, Shigella, Vibrio, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor and Rhizopus. The pH values ranged from 5.60 to 6.80, Conductivity 35 to 40 µs/cm, Total suspended solids (TSS) 48 mg/L to 54.00 mg/L, Total Dissolved Solids 5.20 to 6.50 mg/L, Nitrate 1.00 to 1.45 mg/L, Sulphate 1.00 to 1.30 mg/L, Calcium 6.00 to 9.20 mg/L and BOD 5.30 to 6.20 mg/L in all the stations.
 Conclusion: The presence of E. coli which is an indicator of fecal contamination is enough to suspect that the water body is contaminated with fecal matter and pathogenic bacteria. The water should therefore not be put to human use without proper treatment because the water is of low quality and constitute a danger to public health.

Impacts of Artisanal Crude Oil Refining Activities on Soil Microorganisms

Aim: To evaluate the effect of illegal crude oil refining activities on soil microorganisms using standard microbiological methods.
 Study Design: This study employs laboratory experimental design, statistical analysis of the data and interpretation.
 Place and Duration of Study: Soil samples were taken once a month for three months (May- July, 2018) from Ke in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State, Nigeria, where illegal crude oil refining activities are ongoing.
 Methodology: Using standard microbiological methods, total culturable heterotrophic bacterial counts, total fungal counts, Hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial and fungal counts were analysed to evaluate the effect of the activities. Total hydrocarbon content of the soil samples was also analysed.
 Results: The populations of the total heterotrophic bacterial, fungal and hydrocarbon utilizing bacterial (HUB) and fungal (HUF) counts of the contaminated soil were enumerated. The mean total heterotrophic bacterial counts in Station 1 around the pot ranged from 2.5 x 105 to 1.8 x 106cfu/g, fungal counts ranged from 2.1 x 103 to 4.4 x 104cfu/g, HUB (HUB) counts ranged from 4.2 x 104 to 6.4 x 105cfu/g and hydrocarbon utilizing fungal (HUF) counts ranged from 1.5 x 103 to 4.0 x 103cfu/g. The results of soil samples taken 20m away from the Pot location ranged from 7.0 x 105 to 8.2 x 106cfu/g for total heterotrophic bacterial counts, fungal counts ranged from 2.3 x 103 to 1.5 x 104cfu/g, HUB ranged from 4.7 x 104 to 5.7 x 105cfu/g and HUF ranged from 2.0 x 103 to 3.5 x 103cfu/g. Also, the results of total heterotrophic bacterial counts for Station 2 ranged from; 4.3 x 105 to 3.3 x 106cfu/g, fungi 2.0 x 103 to 3.3 x 104cfu/g, HUB ranged from 3.8 X 104 to 5.4 x 104cfu/g and HUF 1.6 x 103 to 3.5 x 103cfu/g, while 20m away from the Pot total heterotrophic bacteria ranged from 1.3 x 107 to 6.5 x 107cfu/g, fungi 5.8 x 103 to 1.4 x 105cfu/g, HUB 5.4 x 104 to 1.1x 105cfu/g and HUF 3.1 x 103 to 4.7 x 104cfu/g. While the control samples taken from inside the community where no such activity is on, ranged from 2.6 x 107 to 7.9 x 107cfu/g for total heterotrophic bacterial counts, total heterotrophic fungal counts ranged from 2.8 x 104 to 5.3 x 104cfu/g, HUB 2.0 x 102 to 3.1 x 102cfu/g and HUF 2.0 x 101 to 2.3 x 101cfu/g. twelve bacterial genera were identified and eight fungal genera: Bacillus, Alcaligenes, Flavobacterium, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Micrococcus, Proteus, Serratia, Enterobacter, Streptococcus, Escherichia, Staphylococcus, Penicillum, Aspergillus, Fusarium, Mucor, Rhizopus, Geotrichum, Candida, and Cladosporium. Total hydrocarbon content ranged from 106 to 281mg/kg across the locations. When compared with the control, it was observed that the microbial population and diversity were adversely affected. These variations observed in the microbial population are indicative of the effect of the illegal refinery on the soil microorganisms.
 Conclusion: The results of this study indicates that the continuous contamination of the soil environment by the activities of illegal crude oil refining, lead to a decrease in microbial population and diversity. This may result in devastating ecological damage, adversely affecting the ecological balance which may affect food chain and in turn animals and humans.