Thiobacillus Broth

Principle And Interpretation

The genus Thiobacillus is also known under the name of Acidithiobacillus. Thiobacillus are obligate autotrophic organisms, as they require organic carbon both as an electron and carbon source. Thiobacilli produce high quantity of sulphuric acid as a byproduct during oxidation of thiosuphates, sulphur and related inorganic sulphur-containing compounds to generate metabolic energy. Thiobacillus, by its production of sulphuric acid is involved in the destruction of concrete sewers and the acid corrosion of metals (2).

Thiobacillus Broth is a modification of formulation described by Starkey (1) and is used for the isolation and maintenance of Thiobacillus species.

The medium contains three inorganic sulphates and a thiosulphate. Phosphate serves as a buffer while sodium chloride maintains the osmotic balance of the medium.

Samples are inoculated into Thiobacillus Broth. After incubation at 25-30°C for about 7 days or more, turbidity or sulphur precipitation on the surface of the liquid or against the walls of the flasks, indicates growth of bacteria. Isolation is subsequently done on Thiobacillus Agar.