PCR-amplification of mixed 16S rRNA genes from an anaerobic, cyanide-degrading consortium

The microorganisms participating in the anaerobic biodegradation of cyanide were characterized using 16S rRNA genes as genetic markers of diversity. Segments of mixed population 16S rRNA genes were amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and prokaryote-specific amplification primers. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLPs) and screening with the 926f universal sequencing primer were used to categorized the cloned PCR products. Six unique prokaryote sequences were obtained, including four similar to methanogens and two similar to Gram-positive eubacteria.