Screening and Identification of Low density Polyethylene (LDPE) Degrading Soil Fungi Isolated from Polythene Polluted Sites around Gwalior city (M.P.)

Abstract

A B S T R A C T Plastic and polythene waste, including low and high density polyethylene, is accumulating continuously in the environment. It is posing an ever increasing ecological threat. The low density polyethylene is comparatively more vital environmental pollutant and its biodegradation was the focus of the present of study. This study reveals the biodegradation with the help of fungal sps. isolated from polythene polluted soil around Gwalior city,(M.P) India. The fungal sps. were identified by plating and staining techniques. 6 fungal sps. were isolated,3 were identified as Aspergillus sps. and other 3 were Fusarium sp, Mucor sp and Penicillium sp. The screening of isolates was based on their ability to utilize LDPE as a primary carbon source. Fungal sps. were cultured in synthetic media, containing LDPE, as the sole carbon source. The increase in fungal weight and weight loss of LDPE in the medium,were recorded at regular time intervals. The degradation ability was analyzed by clear zone technique, weight reduction of LDPE along with the increase in weight of fungal isolates. These degrading fungal sps. can be used for bioremediation of polyethylene.