Tennessee Wastewater Operator Practice Exam

Which organism is known for both fermentation and luxurious phosphorous uptake?

1. Acinetobacter

2. Rhizobium

3. Marinobacter

4. Tetraphaera

The correct answer is: Tetraphaera

Tetraphaera is recognized for its ability to perform fermentation, which is a metabolic process that allows organisms to produce energy in the absence of oxygen. This capability is particularly useful in wastewater treatment processes where anaerobic conditions may prevail. Additionally, Tetraphaera has a notable feature of luxurious phosphorus uptake. This means it has the ability to absorb and store phosphorus beyond what is necessary for its growth. This characteristic is beneficial in wastewater treatments, especially in removing excess phosphorus from the water, thus helping to mitigate problems such as eutrophication in natural water bodies. The combination of fermentation capabilities and the unique ability to uptake phosphorus makes Tetraphaera especially valuable in biological treatment systems, contributing to both organic matter reduction and nutrient removal. This dual function enhances the efficiency of wastewater treatment processes, aligning with environmental management goals.