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Q: What Are Branching Filaments?

A: Fungi, Nocardia, and Sphaerotilus Natans are three filamentous bacteria found in wastewater treatment systems (WWTPs). In small amounts, they are quite beneficial for the system as they add stability to the floc structure and keep it from breaking up or shearing. In large amounts, however, they can wreak havoc.

Fungi are true branching bacteria that, in large concentrations, indicate a change in pH.  Low pH creates excellent conditions for the increase in fungi which can cause bulking.

Nocardia, another true branching bacteria common to wastewater activated sludge, has been known to cause extensive damage to the wasterwater treatment process by producing foam and bulking. It is also associated with scum formation.

Sphaerotilus Natans is a false branching filamentous bacteria. The cells cling to each other and form a filament, however, occasionally cells branch out from the main filament. Those radiating filaments can cause interference with sludge settling. This filament is usually found in environments where there is low DO (dissolved oxygen) or low nutrients. Nutrient deficient wastewater can present with a slime coating.

Q: What Do You Recommend?

A: Working with our products can improve the biological health of your systems.

For especially complex problems, contact us to find our more about our consulting services.

Do you have a question for the Bugman? Send an e-mail to bugman@teamaquafix.com or give him a call at 1-888-757-9577 (8:00 am – 5:00 pm CST, M-F).

 
 
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