Production of Biosurfactant and Heavy Metal Resistance Activity of Streptomyces Sp. VITDDK3-a Novel Halo Tolerant Actinomycetes Isolated from Saltpan Soil

Abstract

Marine actinomycetes, Streptomyces spp. VITDDK3 was screened and evaluated for biosurfactant production and heavy metal resistance activity. Biosurfactant production was confirmed by conventional screening methods, including hemolytic, drop collapsing and lipase production activity. The isolate was also screened for dye decolourization activity. Haemolytic, drop collapsing and lipase production studies revealed that the isolate produced surface active agents. Agar diffusion assay for heavy metal resistance showed that the isolate was resistant to cadmium and lead. Biodegradation activity of our isolate can be envisaged from its ability to degrade nearly 98% of the azo dye and Reactive red 5B. Based on Hideo Nonomura's classification system, the isolate was considered to be a novel Streptomyces spp. Considering the biosurfactant production and heavy metal resistant activity of the strain, it could be used as potential strain for large scale production of the lead compound.