Uptake of carbon monoxide by soil fungi

Abstract

Soils tested for CO uptake varied in their ability to take up the compound. This activity appeared to be correlated with high organic matter and low pH. Uptake was inhibited by drenching the soil with an antibiotic solution containing streptomycin, erythromycin, and cycloheximide. Cycloheximide is a potent fungicide. Isolations were made from three of the soils, and well over 200 separated species and strains of fungi and bacteria were obtained in pure culture. Of the 200 plus cultures tested, 16 proved capable of removing atmospheric CO. All were fungi. On the basis of these laboratory studies an estimate of the capacity of the soil CO sink may be attempted. 4 references.