Use of Bioluminescence in Detecting Biohazardous Substances in Water

Abstract:

Biological assays are important tools for detecting hazardous materials in water. Presented here is an inexpensive, reproducible assay that requires minimal preparation and equipment. Students are provided with a direct method of detecting potentially biohazardous materials in water by observing the reduction in bacterial luminescence in the non-pathogenic marine bacteria, Vibrio harveyi or Vibrio fischeri. This novel procedure, an attention getter, serves as a motivational tool, stimulating interest and evoking curiosity.

Subject:

Science and Technology

Grade Level:

Post-secondary

SubTopics:

Water

Collection:

Association for Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE)