Fluoride Resistant Bacillus paralicheniformis (MSO5) Isolated from Halophytic Zone of Coringa Mangrove Wildlife Sanctuary

Fluoride contamination in water sources represents a persistent and grave global issue with severe health implications. Microorganisms are known to demonstrate tolerance to various pollutants, enabling their survival in diverse and adverse environments. In this study, we aimed to identify potential bacterial isolates capable of resisting and removing fluoride from contaminated water, and can be used for bioremediation of fluoride contaminated water The unique Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary, a mangrove forest, served as a collection site for soil, sludge and water samples due to its distinctive ability to host halotolerant and halophilic bacteria, setting it apart from other plant species in naturally saline conditions. This exceptional microbial community within mangroves established them as a valuable source of fluoride resistant bacteria. A total of 46 bacterial isolated from sludge, soil, and water samples within the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary belonged to the families Bacillaceae, Vibrionaceae, and Enterobacteriaceae. Predominantly, sludge samples yielded the highest number of isolates (41%), followed by soil (33%) and water (26%). All isolates demonstrated varying degrees of fluoride resistance, with 57% tolerating concentrations up to 2000 mg/L. Further screening showed that 22% of isolates tolerated 10,000 mg/L fluoride, while none survived at 20,000 mg/L. Notably, strain MSO5 exhibited growth on 12,500 mg/L fluoride containing medium within 24 hours. Based on 16S rRNA molecular studies identified the fluoride-resistant isolate MSO5 as Bacillus paralicheniformis. This study marks the first report of strain MSO5 belonging to the Bacillus sp. exhibiting tolerance to 10% salt concentration, temperature 55 °C and resistance to fluoride upto 12,500 mg/L concentration. This research lays the foundation for isolating fluoride resistant bacteria capable of removing fluoride, providing valuable prospects for microbial remediation of contaminated water sources.