Discovery of new bacteria in mangrove trees that reduces pollution

A research team from the Center for Biotechnology and the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University of Science and Technology was able to discover a new bacterial strain in mangrove trees in Abu Dhabi, which they called “KBSD001.” They found that this type of bacteria contributes to the analysis of a group of emerging pollutants and has a high ability to integrate into wastewater treatment systems, especially dry and coastal areas. The study was published in a leading scientific journal.

The complete genome sequence that was discovered is a new species classified as an organic bacteria, and is distinguished by its ability to degrade a wide range of pollutants, in addition to artificial dyes. The new strain can also contribute to enhancing the development of vital solutions for environmental remediation.

The importance of the discovery lies in its scalable application, as the strain was distinguished by its ability to analyze pollutants even under conditions of salt water and high temperatures, which usually limit the effectiveness of traditional treatment methods.

The team included the Dean of the College of Medical and Health Sciences, Professor Habiba Al-Saffar, the Head of the Department of Biosciences, Professor Sayed Ashraf, doctoral researcher Khadija Amin, from the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biotechnology, Dr. Jihan Dhaw Al-Bayt, and Associate Professor of Biosciences, Dr. Ahmed Youssef.