Stephen Chibuike Emencheta, Chinelo Charity Eze, Anthony Amaechi Attama, Damian Ejike Agbo and Ebele Benedette Onuigbo
Objective: This research was designed to isolate and test the lytic action of a bacteriophage specific to Pseudomonas sp.
Methods: Both Pseudomonas sp and bacteriophages were isolated from residential wastewaters. The isolated Pseudomonas sp was confirmed through bioChemical tests. Antibiogram was done with nine different antibiotics. Plague assay was done to determine lytic action of the bacteriophage on Pseudomonas sp. Host range of isolated bacteriophages was assessed.
Results: Cultural characteristics and bioChemical tests confirmed Pseudomonas aeruginosa which was sensitive to ciprofloxacin only. The Multi- Antibiotic Resistance Index (MARI) of the isolated strains was greater than 0.8. The formation of plagues (clear zone) on the lawn of Pseudomonas sp confirmed lytic action. The bacteriophage showed plaques on Pseudomonas sp isolated from other sites.
Conclusion: The isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosaphages from residential waste waters is a promising molecular tool in combating the global antimicrobial resistance threat.
