Microbial degradation of Atrazine in Groundwater

Atrazine is one of the most frequently detected pesticides in groundwater. Its microbial degradation is often studied in soils, but less frequently studied in groundwater . In Israel, atrazine is the most frequently detected pesticide in groundwater. It was hypothesized that its degradation potential in groundwater is wide. Thus, this study aimed to gain indication for ongoing degradation in atrazine affected groundwater.

 Results of microcosm experiments with groundwater bacteria indicated on its degradation potential. PCR analysis of microcosms cultures has shown the presence of atzA and trzN genes. Furthermore, LC-MS analysis of groundwater extracts identified a large proportion of atrazine degradation products indicating on ongoing degradation in the field. Further isotope analysis of atrazine in  groundwater extracts will provide an additional line of evidence for ongoing degradation in groundwater.