Figure 2. 16s rDNA library of intentionally-contaminated B. marmarensis cultures demonstrates its resistance to competitors.
A 1% inoculation of B. marmarensis was grown in media contaminated by outdoor exposure to air or addition of moist mountain soil. Cultures were diluted into fresh, unsterilized media daily for 7 days. Controls were performed in sterile media with and without B. marmarensis, and at both pH setpoints. A sensitivity control with 24:1 Bh:Bm genomic DNA (4% Bm gDNA) was also performed. The 16s rDNA library was quantified on final day. B. marmarensis dominates the open-air systems, and greater dominance with harsher alkaline conditions when exposed to soil. Together, this demonstrates B. marmarensis’ potential to outgrow competitors in alkaline conditions.