Aerobic Heterotrophic Bacteria and the Decomposition of Dead Organisms in Uranouchi Bay

Abstract

To elucidate the involvement of bacteria in the decomposition of dead organisms in Uranouchi Bay, suspended matter, newly-formed deposits, and bottom mud samples were collected from the bay 4 times in 1977. Chemical and bacteriological examinations of these samples were made. The content of organic components decreased in the following order: suspended matter, newly-formed deposits, bottom muds. The levels of organic components in these samples were high in warm water months. Aerobic heterotrophic bacteria decreased in the order: newly-formed deposits, suspended matter, bottom muds.