Characterization of precipitates formed by H 2 S-producing, Cu-resistant Firmicute isolates of Tissierella from human gut and Desulfosporosinus from mine waste

The purpose of this study was to characterize precipitates formed in anaerobic, H 2 S-producing cultures of two Tissierella isolates and Desulfosporosinus strain DB. The cultures were grown in Cu-containing media as part of a larger study of Cu resistance in anaerobic sulfidogens. The Tissierella strains produced H 2 S from peptone. Desulfosporosinus formed H 2 S from peptone or through dissimilatory sulfate reduction with lactate. Tissierella cultures precipitated iron phosphate, vivianite, but no crystalline phases or Cu sulfides were detected. Multiple Cu sulfides, including chalcopyrite and covellite, were detected in Desulfosporosinus cultures but vivianite was not formed. Ion microprobe spectra and electron microscopic examination showed major variation in the elemental composition and morphological differences depending on incubation conditions. Extended incubation time for at least 1–2 months increased the crystallinity of the precipitates. The results highlight biogeochemical differences in sulfide and phosphate precipitates between the two major groups of Firmicutes although they may share the same habitat including the human intestinal tract.