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Microbiology - Industrial Microbiology

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    Study Guide Microbiology – Industrial Microbiology 1. Insecticides and Leaching Agents Microorganisms are not only important in health and food production — they are also widely used in agriculture and industry . Two important applications are their use as biological insecticides and as leaching agents in mining. 1.1 Microorganisms as Insecticides Some bacteria naturally produce substances that kill harmful insects. Because these methods are specific and environmentally friendly, they are highly valued in agriculture. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) One of the most important microbial insecticides is Bacillus thuringiensis . • This bacterium produces a toxic crystal inside its cells • When caterpillars such as gypsy moth larvae or tomato hornworms eat the bacteria, the crystal damages their digestive tract • The damage allows other bacteria to invade, leading to destruction of the insect’s tissues and death Bacillus thuringiensis is sprayed on crops during the growing season. It is popular because it: • Targets specific insects • Does not harm most other organisms • Is considered safer than chemical insecticides 1.2 Bacillus popillae Another bacterium used for insect control is Bacillus popillae . • It causes milky spore disease in caterpillars • Infected insects become weak and eventually die • This bacterium is especially useful for long - term control of insect populations

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    Study Guide 1.3 Microorganisms as Leaching Agents Microorganisms are also important in the mining industry , where they help extract valuable metals from low - grade ores . Microbial Leaching (Bioleaching) Certain bacteria can release metals from ores through chemical reactions. • Species of Thiobacillus are commonly used • These bacteria oxidize ferrous ions (Fe² ⁺ ) into ferric ions (Fe³ ⁺ ) • Ferric ions then react with metal compounds such as copper sulfide • This process converts metals into a soluble form , making them easy to collect Metals such as copper and uranium can be efficiently recovered using this method, even when present in very small amounts. Key Takeaway Microorganisms are powerful tools beyond medicine and food production. As natural insecticides , they help protect crops safely. As leaching agents , they make it possible to extract valuable metals from low - quality ores, reducing waste and increasing efficiency in mining. 2. Fermentations and Biotechnology Fermentation is a biological process in which microorganisms break down carbohydrates to produce useful products. One of the most familiar examples is the fermentation of sugars by yeast to produce ethyl alcohol , a process widely used in biotechnology and the alcoholic beverage industry.

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    Study Guide 2.1 Wine Production: Alcoholic Fermentation Figure 1 The process used in the commercial production of wine. Wine is made through the alcoholic fermentation of fruits , most commonly grapes. The final product develops its flavor, aroma, and alcohol content through a carefully controlled series of steps. Step 1: Crushing the Grapes Freshly harvested grapes are crushed and de - stemmed . This produces a thick liquid mixture called must , which contains grape juice, skins, seeds, and pulp.

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