FIG. 2.

Growth of selected bacteria on synthetic poly(cis-1,4-isoprene). Twenty Erlenmeyer flasks (100 ml), each containing 20 ml of growth medium with or without rubber, were inoculated with the strain of interest and incubated at 30°C for 10 weeks. Two flasks were harvested at 2-week intervals, and the protein concentrations were determined. Evaporated water was replaced by the addition of sterile water. Mean values of the two determinations are given. A noninoculated sterile culture with rubber served as a control. P.c., P. citronellolis.