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Density and composition of microorganisms during long-term (418 day) growth of potato using biologically reclaimed nutrients from inedible plant biomassA study evaluating alternative methods for long term operation of biomass production systems was recently completed at the Kennedy Space Center (KSC). The 418-day study evaluated repeated batch versus mixed-aged production of potato grown on either standard 1/2-strength Hoagland's nutrient solution or solutions including nutrients recycled from inedible plant material. The long term effects of closure and recycling on microbial dynamics were evaluated by monitoring the microbial communities associated with various habitats within the plant growth system (i.e., plant roots, nutrient solution, biofilms within the hydroponic systems, atmosphere, and atmospheric condensate). Plate count methods were used to enumerate and characterize microorganisms. Microscopic staining methods were used to estunate total cell densities. The primary finding was that the density and composition of microbial communities associated with controlled environmental plant growth systems are stable during long term operation. Continuous production resulted in slightly greater stability. Nutrient recycling, despite the addition of soluble organic material from the waste processing system, did not significantly increase microbial density in any of the habitats.
Document ID
20040088979
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Garland, J. L.
(NASA Kennedy Space Center Cocoa Beach FL United States)
Cook, K. L.
Johnson, M.
Sumner, R.
Fields, N.
Sager, J. C.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1997
Publication Information
Publication: Advances in space research : the official journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
Volume: 20
Issue: 10
Subject Category
Man/System Technology And Life Support
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Center KSC
NASA Discipline Life Support Systems

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