When most people think of bacteria, they envision sicknesses, poor water quality, and decay. While being concerned with potential issues related to bacteria is certainly warranted, understanding how various types of bacteria benefit our environment is also essential. In recent years, water supplies worldwide experienced significant degradation, meaning everyone needs to take water conservation seriously.
One factor that’s generated interest among water quality experts is bacteria’s role in soil and water conservation. While this field is still in its infancy, studies are finding that bacteria do, indeed, play an important role in water quality. Let’s explore some of the ways bacteria benefit our water supply.
Understanding The Definition Of Bacteria
Before discussing the importance of bacteria in the environment, especially our water supply, understanding what bacteria are is crucial, as they have a vital place in our world. In simple language, bacteria are simple, single-cell organisms that are far too small to see with the naked eye. Bacteria are active everywhere, including in our bodies, the water we drink, and the soil around us. They can be beneficial or harmful to humans, depending on their type, but all forms of bacteria play important roles in ecosystems.
There are five types of bacteria, with each defined by its shape. The different types are rod, spherical, spiral, comma, and corkscrew. Different forms of bacteria respond to oxygen differently, which simply means not all of them actually need oxygen.
Bacteria In Groundwater
Not all environments promote the growth of bacteria in the same ways. While assuming bacteria in any water source would be the same is easy, that’s not the case. Studies in the 1990s quickly discovered that lakes and streams contained strains of bacteria that were not the same as those found in subterranean water. The primary difference is that, in groundwater, organic carbon is not replenished through photosynthesis. That means carbon must be replenished from the surface or substances already present in the aquifer.
The relationships between bacteria and other organisms are quite complex, which suggests the way we treat our air and soil will directly impact the health of both good and bad forms of bacteria. In other words, it’s up to us to take steps now to benefit the growth of bacteria in our environment. Taking steps to protect and support the development of beneficial bacteria will enhance the soil and encourage plant growth. Of course, beneficial bacteria also enhance the quality of our water supply.
Why Is Water Conservation Crucial?
At this point, our water supply is contaminated by chemicals, human and animal waste, plastics, and other pollutants. While many areas still enjoy reasonably clean water, all water sources are threatened to one degree or another. Water conservation methods vary, but environmental experts are always exploring new and innovative strategies to ensure we always have a reliable supply of clean, potable water.
At Bactelife, one of our focuses is on helping homeowners find effective ways to conserve water, improve soil conditions, and better support plant life on their property. We encourage property owners to consider using products developed to improve the viability of all types of beneficial bacteria.
How Various Forms Of Bacteria Behave In Ground Water
Lakes, streams, rivers, and underground water sources all contain bacteria needed to sustain life. Even water that looks absolutely clear will contain thousands of naturally occurring bacteria per quart. The bacteria transform the minerals and nutrients in the water to make them more accessible and useful for other forms of life.
Bacteria transform carbon to carbon dioxide, affect the distribution of metals like arsenic and uranium and, arguably most importantly, degrade pesticides, fuels, and a variety of organic contaminants. Given the increase in pollution from all sources, we need to take advantage of all the natural allies we have in our fight to clean up our water supply and prevent new sources of contamination from developing.
Because the bacteria in our groundwater are so diverse, they contribute to improving our environment in a variety of ways. Of course, not all forms of bacteria are beneficial to humans, but it’s important to remember we’re not the only species on Earth that relies on bacteria for life. Bacteria are an invaluable part of the food chain, which means when beneficial bacteria are introduced to our soil and water, the entire food chain is kept in balance.
Experts also suggest bacteria in freshwater behave differently than bacteria in contaminated water. The substances in water make it possible for different types of bacteria to develop and thrive under various conditions. That’s why research into how bacteria purify contaminated water is vitally important today.
Bacteria Benefit Homeowners In A Variety Of Ways
Anyone paying attention to weather trends knows many parts of the country are suffering severe drought conditions. Even parts of the nation that are traditionally wet throughout the year are now experiencing dry conditions they’ve never seen before. Bactelife’s goals include helping property owners conserve water while improving their property.
When the proper bacteria are introduced, soil health improves dramatically, as natural processes needed to preserve or restore soil health are encouraged. New, high-quality soil is created as the bacteria do what comes naturally. That means your gardens grow better, flowers are healthier and more beautiful, and the soil is far better able to support all types of growth. At the same time, runoff isn’t contaminated as it would be when applying traditional fertilizers.
The bacteria from Bactelife are introduced using specialized treatments, and property owners see amazing changes in their property after only three or four treatments. Because the habitat is healthier, far less water is needed to keep lawns or crops growing.
Get Started On A Greener Tomorrow
Our water supply is precious, and it’s our responsibility to do whatever is possible to prevent additional contamination of the groundwater. Employing beneficial bacteria is a major step toward achieving that goal. If you’re ready to explore new ways to save water and reduce the contamination of our precious groundwater supply, contact our experts today. We’re here to help you live a greener life
