Fungi in biosolids

Question

Does anyone test for fungi in biosolids?

Waymon Hofheins · Accepted Answer

Yes, we have many years of experience with fungi in biosolids. Myxomycetes also called true slime molds, contribute most of the biomass found in what is called biosolids.  The problem has been fully discussed, and solved on  how they glue themselves down to the surface layer.  We can test to confirm the presence of these  organisms, but if you have a biosolids they will be there.  Spores of the Myxomycetes are exceptional resistant to unfavorable conditions, especially to prolonged periods of desiccation, which few other organisms are able to withstand.  I can go on, let us just say they are always around causing problems.   We have developed a biocide adjunct that can dissolve the glue layers and remove the slime or biomass from the surface where they can be killed with conventional biocides.  Last week we saw again that the application of 35% Hydrogen Peroxide failed to penetrate the cell wall.  Last month we had a similar experience where a 10% solution of sodium hypochlorite in a 700,000 system failed to remove the biomass.  It came off in massive layers with our chemistry and was removed and destroyed in the filters - then we totally cleaned the filters.  Confirmation was within minutes by using testing for ATP methods.  I can send you some case study reports, upon request.  I hope I helped with this quick course in Mycology: the area of my graduate work, with a side study in Pharmacy at the University of Oklahoma.  
Waymon E. Hofheins
President, Blue Valley Laboratories, Inc.
Kansas City, MO 64108
wh@bluevalleylabs.com

Taxonomy