Reference no: EM133505054

Question

There is a toxic mercury spill off the Gulf Coast and authorities need to know how to proceed. As the local microbiologist, you are asked to research and direct the clean-up effort. Your options are: Cupriavidus metallidurans is a heavy metal-resistant bacterium and a natural inhabitant of aquatic ecosystems. It is nonpathogenic and can degrade mercury, copper, and cadmium at various depths. It requires oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur for its metabolism but can grow in low oxygen areas. Coprinus comatus is a mercury-detoxifying fungus and a natural inhabitant of terrestrial ecosystems. It is particularly prevalent in grassland areas and areas with soil pollution from coal-burning powerplants. It is usually found as a multicellular mushroom, but once picked, dies quickly. Based on the information provided, what might be the safest and most effective bioremediation method to use? What type of bioremediation is it? Include at least 3 reasons for the microbe you choose. Be sure to use proper terminology.