The Use of Chitin by Vibrios in Saline Waters

Abstract

Chitin is reported to be rather resistant to biodegradation, although in recent years there have been a number of reports which indicate the production of a chitinase by some microorganisms. Using naturally occurring chitin and practical grade granular chitin, we have studied the growth of V. cholerae (both 01 and non-01) when utilizing chitin as a sole carbon source. In addition to growth characteristics, the effects of chitin presence on changes in agglutination patterns, and on the production of toxin have been studied. The implications of chitin biodegradation is considered both from the public health, and the environmental pollution standpoints.