Transformation and Degradation of Dimethyl Sulfide by Marine Microorganisms or by Their Products

Abstract

Three ways of the transformation and degradation of dimethyl sulfide (DMS) by marine microorganisms or by their products are reviewed. DMS is transformed to methyl mercaptan and formaldehyde under oxic conditions by some strains of sulfur oxidizing bacteria and methylotrophs. DMS is transformed to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) under oxic conditions by the bacterium which utilizes DMS as a sulfur source, ammonia oxidizers, methanotrophs, and photosensitizers produced by marine algae. DMS is transformed or degraded under anoxic conditions by some strains of methanogens and phototrophic bacteria. © 1998, Japanese Society of Microbial Ecology – The Japanese Society of Soil Microbiology. All rights reserved.