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Streptomyces sp: A source of odorous substances in potable water

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Abstract

Growth medium containing an aquatic actinomycete Streptomyces sp. was analyzed by gas-liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry for the purpose of identifying substances that may represent potential odorous contaminants of water. Twenty-one odorous and nonodorous compounds were identified. Phenyl, C2, and C4 structures were predominant. Free fatty acids from C13 to C16 were detected and in some cases accompanied by their ethyl (C16) and butyl (C15 and C16) esters. The long-chain acids and esters had no detectable odor. Although goesmin, an earthy smelling substance with a low odor threshold, was detected, butyric acid was the principal metabolite under the growth conditions employed and represented the greatest potential as an odorous water pollutant under natural conditions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Botany and Microbiology, Auburn University, AL 36830, Auburn, USA

    John D. Weete

  2. Center for Bioorganic Studies, University of New Orleans, LA70122, New Orleans, USA

    Wen Y. Huang & John L. Laseter

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  1. John D. Weete
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  2. Wen Y. Huang
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  3. John L. Laseter
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Weete, J.D., Huang, W.Y. & Laseter, J.L. Streptomyces sp: A source of odorous substances in potable water. Water Air Soil Pollut 11, 217–223 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00286633

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00286633

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