Microbial Fix

We need to eliminate only certain bacteria to keep water clean. Harmless bacteria cling inside water pipes as biofilms. These films act as a safe place for harmful bacteria to hide before getting released in water. But it is only in presence of some bacteria, like Methylobacterium, that a biofilm can be formed. Targeting these bacteria can cut biofilm formation, thus, keeping harmful bacteria out of water pipes. This would help cut the amount of chemicals required to clean water for supply.

Source

Down To Earth, September, 2013