WET LABORATORY ACTIVITIES
Isolation of viable microorganisms from environmental samples
Bacteria from collected samples are isolated and cultured to study their roles in water quality and AMR. By obtaining live microorganisms from river samples, the study helps reveal how microbial communities reflect ecosystem health and detect early signs of AMR spread.
Biochemical testing of bacterial isolates
Biochemical tests are conducted on bacterial isolates obtained from river samples to identify their physiological and metabolic characteristics. These tests help determine species identity and detect potential AMR strains. Through this process, the study gains insights into the functional diversity of bacteria in the Butuanon River and their possible roles in ecosystem and public health.
Gram-staining for bacterial identification
Gram staining is performed to classify bacterial isolates based on their cell wall composition. This fundamental technique distinguishes Gram-positive from Gram-negative bacteria, providing an essential first step in identifying species and assessing their potential for AMR. The results guide further biochemical and molecular analyses of bacterial diversity in the Butuanon River.
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
Bacterial isolates are exposed to different antibiotics to assess their resistance or sensitivity profiles. This process determines the effectiveness of antimicrobial agents and identifies resistant strains present in Butuanon river. The results provide important data for understanding the spread of AMR and its implications for ecosystem and public health.
Chlorophyll extraction and analysis
Chlorophyll extraction and analysis are performed from the collected water samples to assess phytoplankton biomass and primary productivity. Using solvent extraction and spectrophotometric methods, chlorophyll concentrations are quantified as indicators of water quality. This analysis provides supporting data for understanding the ecological conditions that may influence the occurrence of AMR.
Cultivation and isolation of diatoms
Planktonic and periphytic diatoms from water and substrate samples are enriched, isolated, and maintained under controlled laboratory conditions. Through careful preparation and culture techniques, viable diatoms are obtained for microscopic identification and analysis. Cultivating these species enables consistent observation of their growth and morphology, supporting their use as bioindicators of water quality and AMR.
eDNA extraction and isolation
Environmental DNA (eDNA) from collected water and sediment samples are extracted and isolated to detect the genetic material of microorganisms present in the ecosystem. This method enables the identification of species, providing a more comprehensive view of microbial diversity. This enhances the assessment of river health and environmental change.