Chlorpyrifos (0, 0 – diethyl 0 - (3, 5, 6 – trichloro – 2 - pyridyl phosphorothioate) is broadspectrum pesticide with trade names Dursban, Lorsban and Spannit, displaying insecticidal activity against Lepidoptera, Diptera, Homoptera, Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Hymenoptera and Hemiptera. However, these organophosphates pesticides have acute neurotoxicity as they suppress acetylcholine esterase (AChE). Hence, present study deals with exploring bacteria for chlorpyrifos degradation ability. Total 10 different samples were collected from soil where chlorpyrifos pesticide was applied. Out of these 10 samples, six samples showed bacteria which are able to grow on Bushnell and Haas agar containing chlorpyrifos as sole carbon source. 15 bacteria which produce zone of clearance near colony were considered efficient chlorpyrifos degrader and purified for further studies. | Screening of bacteria for their chlorpyrifos degrading ability
