A Review of the Role of Oligotrophic Micro-organisms in Biodeterioration

Abstract

Oligotrophic microorganisms including many bacteria and fungi are able to grow in low concentrations or the apparent absence of nutrients by scavenging from the atmosphere or substratum on which they grow. As a result, oligotrophs often contaminate seemingly nutrient-free liquids and surfaces such as metals and glass. Oligotrophy allows initial substrate colonization without immediate substrate utilization although this may follow once the organism has become established. Oligotrophic microorganisms cause a number of problems associated with biocontamination and biodeterioration, e.g. contaminate bottled drinking water and colonize solid surfaces such as glass, metals and electronic components. The aim of this review is to highlight the part played by oligotrophs in biocontamination and biodeterioration