Dissociation of Rhodococcus rhodochrous Population after the Whole Cells Immobilization

Abstract

Six agricultural organic wastes and three inorganic matrices were selected for rhodococci whole cells immobilization. The degree of immobilization of rhodococci cells varied from 6.20% to 34.30% on organic matrices. A high level of Rhodococcus rhodochrous CNMN-Ac-05 cells immobilization was demonstrated on inorganic matrices, it was from 69.25% to 97.30%. After the contact with support the strain dissociated, forming, in addition to original S type, rough (R) and altercolour smooth (S) types. Immobilization of rhodococci cells on organic supports led to the appearance of phenotypic heterogeneity from 0.34% to 3.26%. On inorganic matrices the variability of rhodococci was 0.88-1.05%.