Cable bacteria for lake restoration

Many water bodies suffer from eutrophication due to excessive nutrients, leading to massive algal growth, anoxic waters, and bottom sludge. Traditional remediation methods like mechanical sludge removal or oxygen injection are costly. A new approach by Söll GmbH involves using granulated calcium peroxide to induce aerobic oxidation of organic matter, showing greater effectiveness than expected from lab tests.
Cable bacteria, discovered at Aarhus University, connect sulfide oxidation in anoxic sediment with oxygen reduction at the surface over centimeter-distances by conducting electrons via periplasmic wires. This long-distance electron transport (LDET) extends the influence of oxygen deeper into the sediment aiding bioremediation of contaminated sites.
Preliminary analyses show the presence of cable bacteria in some calcium peroxide-treated lakes, suggesting a potential synergy. This research project aims to test if cable bacteria enhance the effect of calcium peroxide by propagating its effect deeper into anoxic sediment. If successful, we will explore methods to combine cable bacteria with calcium peroxide to improve lake restoration efficiency.