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From the Carp Gut to Plastic Solutions: Strain from Demonstrates Robust Degradation of Synthetic Polymers.
Summary
Scientists found a bacteria living in the gut of carp fish that can break down plastic bags (polyethylene) surprisingly fast, chewing through nearly a quarter of a plastic sample in just over two weeks. This matters because plastic pollution in water eventually breaks into microplastics that end up in fish, seafood, and ultimately our own bodies, so discovering natural microbes that can degrade plastic offers a promising, eco-friendly tool for cleaning up waterways before that plastic reaches our dinner plates.
The accumulation of polyethylene (PE) in aquatic ecosystems represents a significant environmental challenge due to the polymer's high molecular weight and chemical stability. This study investigates the biodegradation potential of UUNT_MP29, a bacterial strain isolated from the gut of common carp (), for low-density polyethylene (LDPE). Initial screening on LDPE-emulsified agar confirmed extracellular enzymatic activity through the formation of distinct clear zones. Quantitative analysis showed a cumulative mass loss of 24.10% by Day 16, with the most intensive degradation occurring between Days 4 and 8, which closely correlated with maximum bacterial count (CFU/mL). Kinetic modeling indicated that the degradation followed a first-order rate law (R = 0.9269), with a rate constant (k) of 0.2991 days and a remarkably short half-life (t) of 2.32 days. Structural characterization via FTIR spectroscopy demonstrated oxidative transformation, evidenced by a reduction in sp C-H stretching and the emergence of C-O/C-O-C functional groups. SEM micrographs further confirmed extensive bio-deterioration, including surface pitting and macroscale erosion. Thermal analysis (TGA/DTG) supported these findings, showing a significant 10.95 °C decrease in the maximum degradation temperature (T), indicating a reduction in polymer chain length. These results suggest that UUNT_MP29 is a highly efficient agent for the rapid breakdown of polyethylene and highlight the potential of aquatic gut microbiota as reservoirs for plastic-degrading biotechnologies.