Evaluation of RNA Hybridization to Assess Bacterial Population Dynamics
at Natural Attenuation Sites
By Lisa A. Reynolds and Sheridan K. Haack
ABSTRACT
To improve site characterization and monitoring of natural attenuation sites,
a better understanding of bacterial population dynamics is necessary. Bacterial
populations found in contaminated aquifers can be quantified and identified
using RNA (ribonucleic acid) hybridization. This technique allows for identification
of specific bacterial populations that are active in situ. In addition,
some biodegradation processes can be inferred using this method. RNA hybridization
was used to analyze methane-producing bacterial populations at a natural attenuation
site contaminated with jet fuel and chlorinated solvents. Preliminary results
indicate spatial and temporal changes in methane-producing bacterial populations.
Further work will characterize different groups of methanogens. These different
groups of methane-producing bacteria will be used to predict the biodegradation
processes that are likely to be occurring on specific dates and locations.
Knowledge of the dynamics of these bacterial populations and processes will
aid in modeling and evaluation of contaminated sites at which monitored natural
attenuation has been chosen as a remediation strategy.