Isolation and Characterization of Polyethylene-Degrading Microbes from the Digestive System of Perionyx excavates

Background: Polyethylene's resistance to degradation and adverse environmental impacts necessitates urgent intervention.This study explores microbial degradation, focusing on earthworms, particularly Perionyx excavatus, as potential agents for efficient plastic degradation.Methodology: 11 bacterial and 5 fungal strains isolated from P. excavatus were characterized for their potential in polyethylene breakdown.Polyethylene underwent pre-treatment with 30% H2O2 under UV light, inducing observable changes.Microbial degradation experiments compared bacterial and fungal rates.Microscopic imaging and FTIR analysis validated structural changes, and weight loss measurements quantified degradation.Results: Fungal strains exhibited higher polyethylene degradation rates than bacteria.Microscopic imaging and FTIR analysis confirmed successful degradation by both.Weight loss measurements quantified substantial compromise in polyethylene tensile strength. Conclusion:Microbial-mediated degradation, exemplified by bacterial isolate 6 (BAC 6), offers a sustainable approach to polyethylene waste management.BAC 6, a novel species related to Bacillus cereus strain JCM 2152, This research highlights the efficacy of earthworm-associated microbes in polyethylene degradation, offering a sustainable waste management solution with global implications for addressing plastic pollution.The findings contribute to interdisciplinary approaches for a sustainable future.