Screening of microorganisms producing a new kind of flocculating substance was carried out. A fungus that produced a large amount of a strong microbial cell flocculant was isolated from soil. The fungus was classified as a Paecilomyces species. The substance produced showed very interesting and unique flocculation characteristics. It could efficiently flocculate all tested suspended solids in aqueous solution, and flocculation was practically not affected by ionic strength, pH or temperature.
The influence of components of the culture medium upon the flocculant production by Paecilomyces sp. 1-1 was studied. Addition of hydrolysates of casein such as casamino acid and polypeptone stimulated the production of the flocculant. A high concentration of calcium ions also significantly increased the mycelial growth and the production of the flocculant. Under the optimum cultural conditions, a 500-fold dilution of the culture filtrate could efficiently flocculate and sediment E. coli cells.

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