Author/Authors :
Sowmya، H. V. نويسنده Dept. of P.G. Studies and Research in Microbiology, Bioscience Complex, Kuvempu University, Jnanasahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577 451, Shivamogga(Dist.,), Karnataka, India , , Ramalingappa، B. نويسنده Dept. of P.G. Studies and Research in Microbiology, Davangere University, Shivagangothri, Tholahunse -577 002, Davangere (Dist.,), Karnataka, India , , Nayanashree، G. نويسنده Dept. of P.G. Studies and Research in Microbiology, Bioscience Complex, Kuvempu University, Jnanasahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577 451, Shivamogga(Dist.,), Karnataka, India , , Thippeswamy، B. نويسنده Dept. of P.G. Studies and Research in Microbiology, Bioscience Complex, Kuvempu University, Jnanasahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577 451, Shivamogga(Dist.,), Karnataka, India , , Krishnappa، M. نويسنده Dept. of Applied Botany, Bioscience Complex, Kuvempu University, Jnanasahyadri, Shankaraghatta-577 451, Shivamogga(Dist.,), Karnataka, India ,
Abstract :
Polyethylene is a synthetic polymer which is used in our daily life for different purposes. Increased
use of polyethylene causes severe environmental problems. There are different methods to decrease problem
caused by polyethylene for example source reduction, incineration and land filling and all of them have their own
drawbacks. So, the best way to reduce the problem caused by polyethylene is its biodegradation. In our work we
isolated, Curvularia lunata, Alternaria alternata, Penicillium simplicissimum and Fusarium sp. from local
dumpsites of Shivamogga Dist. Degradation experiment was carried out using surface sterilized polyethylene for
a period of 3 months and degradation was confirmed by weight loss, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
and Scanning ElectronMicroscopy studies. Individualweight loss shown byCurvularia lunata (1.2%), Alternaria
alternata (0.8%), Penicillium simplicissimum (7.7%) and Fusarium sp. (0.7%) was less compared to their
combination (27%).Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopyand Scanning ElectronMicroscopyresults confirmed
degradation. Enzymes responsible for polyethylene degradation were also screened andwere identified as laccase
and manganese peroxidase. So, the results confirm the significant role of consortium in polyethylene degradation
compared to single microorganisms. Microbial consortium can be used to solve problem caused by polyethylene
in the environment and it is also eco friendly method without any side effects.
