Influence of aluminum on motility and swarming of Pseudomonas sp. and Arthrobacter sp.

Abstract

The effect of Al on the motility and the swarming of Pseudomonas sp. and Arthrobacter sp. was investigated, pH calibration curves were determined in semi-solid agar which enabled us to distinguish between the effects of aluminum and protons. Motility of the bacteria was distinctly influenced by Al but this effect could be attributed to the increased acidity accompanying Al addition. The swarming of Pseudomonas sp. is reported for the first time. The swarming ability decreased with both Al and HCl addition to the medium but the obstruction due to aluminum was significantly stronger than the influence of HCl.