Isolation and identification of bacteria degrading 2,2-dichloropropionic acid in water sample

The widespread use of herbicides containing 2,2-dichloropropionic acid (2,2-DCP) as a recalcitrant halogen compound poses significant environmental risks and can be harmful for human. Consequently, it is important that the bio-based detoxification method is developed in an environmental manner. This study was aimed to isolate and identify a possible degradation 2,2-DCP bacterial strain as the sole source of carbon. A bacterial dehalogenase producing 2,2-DCP was isolated named as WM. The WM strain was shown to have 98% sequence identity and characteristics similar to Enterobacter sp. based on 16s rRNA analysis, biochemical and morphological tests. Phylogenic analysis showed that the WM strain is Enterobacter sp.. In media with 20 mM 3CP, the bacteria were well growing at 37°C, although an optimal chloride ion release was 0.48 μmol Cl/mL. Our finding is first report of an Enterobacter sp. strain which can use 2, 2-DCP as sole carbon source in a competent manner.