Flexibactor
Identification
- Moves in a flexing motion
- Gram and Neisser negative
Why Do I have It?
- Low D.O. conditions
- Septic conditions
- May show up in anoxic or anaerobic zones in WWTPs
- Can sometimes be found in septic systems
Effects on Wastewater System
Flexibactor is an indicator of low D.O. and septic conditions, but has no effect on the system.
Treatment
If Flexibactor is observed in your plant, we recommend increasing aeration to raise the oxidation/reduction potential in your wastewater plant. If this is not possible, Aquafix recommends the use of OxyFresh which helps combat low dissolved oxygen conditions. To determine the underlying cause of low D.O. contact a technical representative.
Under the Microscope and in Your Plant
Flexibactor is a small (<200 µm) and narrow (0.5-0.8 motile filament that moves in a flexing motion. this can be identified under 400x by its movements. the search of higher oxygen environments. Flexibactor stains Gram and Neisser negative. While Flexibactor is rare to see in aerobic wastewater treatment systems, it is an indicator organism of low dissolved oxygen conditions. While this filament does not need to be treated, the low DO conditions may be causing other issues that could need to be addressed. Occasionally Flexibactor spp. can contain sulfur granules.
References
https://www.asissludge.com/